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Anuj Rawat is a young left handed wicketkeeper batter from Delhi who has been steadily building his career in the Indian Premier League. Known for his aggressive batting intent and ability to contribute behind the stumps, Rawat represents the new generation of Indian cricketers trying to establish themselves in one of the most competitive T20 leagues in the world. Although his opportunities have been limited so far, he has shown flashes of potential that suggest he could develop into a dependable performer in the future.

Since entering the IPL, Rawat’s journey has included multiple franchises and several learning phases. He began his IPL career with the Rajasthan Royals, later moved to Royal Challengers Bangalore, and is now part of the Gujarat Titans setup. Each stage of his career has helped him gain experience at the highest level of franchise cricket while competing with some of the best players in the world.

This detailed guide covers everything about Anuj Rawat’s IPL career, from his debut with Rajasthan Royals to his current journey with Gujarat Titans.

Anuj Rawat IPL Career Overview and Teams:

Anuj Rawat has played for three different IPL franchises since 2020. His journey shows both the struggles and successes of a young player trying to establish himself in the competitive IPL environment.

Complete IPL Journey: Started with Rajasthan Royals in 2020, moved to Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2022, and now plays for Gujarat Titans from 2025.

Category	Statistics
Total Matches	24
Total Runs	318
Highest Score	66
Average	19.88
Strike Rate	119.1
Fifties	1
Catches	18
Debut	2021 vs SRH

Anuj Rawat brings a unique skill set to IPL teams. As a left handed batsman and wicketkeeper, he offers flexibility in team selection. His ability to bat at different positions makes him valuable. Though his overall numbers are modest, he has played some memorable innings that show his potential to become a regular IPL performer.

Complete IPL Career Breakdown Of Anuj Rawat:

Here is a complete table showing Anuj Rawat’s IPL career across all seasons:

Season	Team	Matches	Runs	Highest Score	Average	Strike Rate	Auction Price
2020	Rajasthan Royals	0	0	0	0	0	80 Lakh
2021	Rajasthan Royals	2	0	0	0	0	80 Lakh
2022	Royal Challengers Bangalore	8	129	66	18.43	104.8	3.4 Crore
2023	Royal Challengers Bangalore	5	23	25	7.67	95.83	3.4 Crore
2024	Royal Challengers Bangalore	9	166	48	23.71	136.0	3.4 Crore
2025	Gujarat Titans	Expected	Expected	Expected	Expected	Expected	30 Lakh
2026	Gujarat Titans	Expected	Expected	Expected	Expected	Expected	30 Lakh

Key Career Highlights: His best season was 2022 when he scored 129 runs in 8 matches. The 2024 season showed improvement with 166 runs at a better strike rate of 136. His career has been about fighting for opportunities and making the most of limited chances.

1. IPL 2020 Season with Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals bought Anuj Rawat for 80 lakh rupees in the December 2019 auction. This was his first IPL contract and a dream come true for the young Delhi batsman. However, he did not get a single match in the entire 2020 season. He spent the season warming the bench and learning from experienced players. Despite not playing, the experience of being in an IPL environment helped his development. He trained with international stars and understood what it takes to succeed at the highest level. Rajasthan Royals kept him in the squad for the next season. This showed they believed in his potential for future seasons.

2. IPL 2021 Season with Rajasthan Royals

Anuj Rawat made his IPL debut in 2021 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. This was a special moment for him after waiting for over a year. He played 2 matches in the season but did not get a chance to bat in either game. His role was primarily as a backup wicketkeeper and fielder. Though he did not contribute with the bat, he took 4 catches behind the stumps. These matches gave him valuable experience of playing at the highest level. After the season ended, Rajasthan Royals released him before the mega auction. His limited opportunities meant he needed a fresh start with a new team. The release was disappointing but opened new doors for his career.

3. IPL 2022 Season with Royal Challengers Bangalore

Royal Challengers Bangalore bought Anuj Rawat for a massive 3.4 crore rupees in the 2022 mega auction. This was a huge jump from his previous 80 lakh price tag. RCB saw potential in the young wicketkeeper batsman and invested heavily. This became his breakthrough season in the IPL. He played 8 matches and scored 129 runs at an average of 18.43. His highest score of 66 runs came against Mumbai Indians, which was also his maiden IPL fifty. This knock won him the Player of the Match award. He opened the innings in most matches, showing versatility. His strike rate of 104.8 was decent for an opener. This season justified RCB’s investment in him.

4. IPL 2023 Season with Royal Challengers Bangalore

Royal Challengers Bangalore retained Anuj Rawat for 3.4 crore in 2023. However, this season was disappointing for him. He got only 5 matches and scored just 23 runs total. His highest score was a mere 25 runs, showing struggles with form. The presence of Dinesh Karthik as the main wicketkeeper limited his opportunities. His average dropped to 7.67, which was concerning. The strike rate of 95.83 was also below expectations for modern T20 cricket. Competition from other batsmen meant he could not cement his place in the playing eleven. Despite the poor numbers, RCB showed faith by retaining him for another year. He needed to bounce back strong in the next season.

5. IPL 2024 Season with Royal Challengers Bangalore

Anuj Rawat had his best IPL season in 2024 with Royal Challengers Bangalore. He played 9 matches and scored 166 runs at an average of 23.71. His strike rate improved dramatically to 136, showing more aggressive intent. The highlight was his 48 runs off 25 balls against Chennai Super Kings in the opening match. This innings set the tone for RCB’s season and showed his talent. He batted mostly in the middle order rather than opening. This position suited his aggressive style better. He formed a crucial partnership of 95 runs with Dinesh Karthik in that CSK match. His performances were more consistent than previous seasons. However, RCB still released him before the 2025 auction.

6. IPL 2025 Season with Gujarat Titans

Gujarat Titans bought Anuj Rawat for his base price of 30 lakh rupees in the 2025 auction. This was a massive drop from his 3.4 crore price at RCB. The low price reflected his inconsistent performances over the years. Gujarat Titans saw value in adding depth to their wicketkeeping options. For Rawat, this is a fresh opportunity to prove himself with a new franchise. He joins a team that has won the IPL title in 2022. Playing under Shubman Gill’s captaincy and coach Ashish Nehra will help his development. At 25 years old, he still has time to establish himself. Gujarat Titans will hope he can rediscover his 2024 form. This season is crucial for his IPL future.

7. IPL 2026 Season with Gujarat Titans Expected

Gujarat Titans is expected to retain Anuj Rawat for 30 lakh in 2026. This depends entirely on his performance in the 2025 season. If he can get regular matches and perform well, the retention is likely. The team needs backup wicketkeeping options behind main keeper Wriddhiman Saha. Rawat’s left handed batting adds variety to the Gujarat lineup. By 2026, he will be 26 years old and entering his prime years. This age is perfect for a batsman to peak in T20 cricket. Gujarat may give him more opportunities than RCB did. The pressure is less at Gujarat compared to the intense scrutiny at RCB. A good 2025 season can secure his place for 2026 and beyond.

Best IPL Performances and Memorable Innings:

Anuj Rawat has played some memorable innings despite limited opportunities. These performances show what he is capable of when given a chance. Top 3 Best Innings:

1. 66 vs Mumbai Indians (IPL 2022): This remains his highest IPL score and maiden fifty. Playing at the DY Patil Stadium, Rawat opened the innings for RCB. He scored 66 runs and won the Player of the Match award. This innings announced his arrival in the IPL. He hit boundaries all around the ground with confidence. The knock helped RCB post a competitive total against the defending champions. This performance justified the 3.4 crore price tag RCB paid for him.

2. 48 vs Chennai Super Kings (IPL 2024): This was a crucial innings in the IPL 2024 opening match. RCB was struggling at 78 for 5 when Rawat came to bat. He smashed 48 runs off just 25 balls at a strike rate of 192. His partnership of 95 runs with Dinesh Karthik rescued RCB from trouble. The aggressive batting style showed his improvement from previous seasons. This innings reminded everyone of his talent with the bat. It was one of the best finishes in the IPL 2024 season.

3. 38 vs Gujarat Titans (IPL 2022): Rawat scored 38 runs against Gujarat Titans at the Brabourne Stadium. He opened the innings and provided a solid start for RCB. Though he could not convert it into a big score, the intent was clear. His boundary hitting was impressive in the powerplay overs. This innings showed he could handle pressure against quality bowling attacks.

Strengths And Weaknesses Of Anuj Rawat As An IPL Player:

Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of Anuj Rawat helps explain his journey in the Indian Premier League so far. While he has shown flashes of aggressive batting and useful wicketkeeping ability, consistency and adapting to different match situations remain key areas that influence his performance and opportunities in the league.

Understanding Anuj Rawat’s game helps explain his IPL journey so far.

Key Strengths:

• Left Handed Advantage Being a left handed batsman gives him a natural edge. Bowlers need to adjust their lines and lengths. This creates opportunities for scoring runs. Teams always value left right batting combinations.
• Aggressive Batting Style Rawat plays with positive intent from the first ball. His strike rate in IPL 2024 was 136, showing attacking mindset. He can hit boundaries to all parts of the ground. This aggression is valuable in T20 cricket.
• Wicketkeeping Skills His ability to keep wickets adds flexibility to team selection. Teams can play an extra batsman or bowler. He has taken 18 catches in 24 IPL matches. His glovework is reliable behind the stumps.
• Powerplay Hitting Rawat is effective in the powerplay overs when field restrictions apply. He can take advantage of gaps in the field. His best innings have come when he opened or batted early.

Key Weaknesses:

• Inconsistency: His biggest problem is lack of consistency. He plays one good innings followed by several failures. His career average of 19.88 reflects this inconsistency. Building partnerships and staying longer at the crease is a challenge.
• Technique Against Spin: Rawat struggles against quality spin bowling in middle overs. His footwork against spinners needs improvement. This has led to dismissals at crucial moments.
• Limited Game Time: Not getting regular matches has affected his rhythm. He needs consistent opportunities to develop as a player. The stop start nature of his career has been frustrating.
• Pressure Handling: When expectations are high, he sometimes fails to deliver. Converting starts into big scores is an area needing work. Mental strength in pressure situations needs development.

Comparison with Other Young Wicketkeeper Batsmen:

Comparing Anuj Rawat with other young wicketkeeper batters helps highlight where he stands in terms of performance, consistency, and career growth. While Rawat has shown potential with aggressive batting and useful wicketkeeping skills, several players in the same role have already established themselves through consistent performances in the Indian Premier League and international cricket.

• Anuj Rawat vs Ishan Kishan: Ishan Kishan has been far more successful in IPL. He has scored over 2000 runs with multiple fifties. Kishan also plays for India across all formats. However, both are left handed wicketkeeper batsmen with aggressive styles. Rawat needs to show similar consistency to reach Kishan’s level.
• Anuj Rawat vs Dhruv Jurel: Dhruv Jurel is another young wicketkeeper from Uttar Pradesh. He made his IPL debut with Rajasthan Royals in 2023. Jurel has shown more composure and temperament in limited opportunities. Both are fighting for chances in a competitive environment. Jurel’s recent India call up shows what consistent performance can achieve.
• Anuj Rawat vs KS Bharat: KS Bharat is an established wicketkeeper in Indian cricket. He has played Tests for India and is more experienced. Bharat’s technique is more solid while Rawat is more aggressive. Both offer wicketkeeping skills but different batting approaches. Bharat’s career shows the importance of domestic consistency.

What Rawat Needs to Learn: These comparisons show that Rawat has the talent but needs better consistency. Converting opportunities into match winning performances is crucial. Working on technique against spin bowling will help. Mental strength and shot selection need improvement. If he can address these areas, he can have a long IPL career.

Future Prospects in IPL and Indian Cricket:

The future of Anuj Rawat in the Indian Premier League will largely depend on his performances in the upcoming seasons. A move to the Gujarat Titans gives him a fresh opportunity to rebuild his career with less pressure and more chances to prove his abilities. If he manages to perform consistently, score important runs, and secure regular playing time, his value in future IPL auctions could increase and help him establish himself as a reliable wicketkeeper batter in the league.

Looking beyond the IPL, breaking into the Indian national team remains a challenging task due to strong competition from players like Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, and Sanju Samson. To move closer to national selection, Rawat will need standout IPL performances along with consistent results in domestic tournaments such as the Ranji Trophy. Improving his technique against spin, maintaining strong fitness levels, and converting promising starts into match winning innings will be key factors in shaping his long term cricket career.

Anuj Rawat’s Impact Beyond Statistics:

Cricket is not just about numbers. Anuj Rawat’s journey offers lessons for aspiring cricketers.

1. Inspiring Background Story: Born in a small village in Uttarakhand, Rawat faced financial challenges. His father took loans to support his cricket dreams. Moving to Delhi at age 11 showed dedication and sacrifice. Training under Virat Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma helped his development. This journey from village to IPL inspires young cricketers from small towns.
2. Representative of Left Handed Keepers: Left handed wicketkeeper batsmen are rare in cricket. Rawat represents this unique category. His success encouraged other left handers to take up wicketkeeping. Showing that left handers can keep wickets at the highest level.
3. Youth Icon for Delhi Cricket: As a Delhi player, Rawat inspires young cricketers in the capital. His selection in the IPL mega auction for big money motivated many. Delhi has produced many Indian cricketers and Rawat continues this legacy. Young keepers in Delhi academies look up to him.
4. Resilience and Persistence: Despite limited opportunities and setbacks, Rawat keeps fighting. His 2024 comeback after poor 2023 shows character. Not giving up after being released by RCB demonstrates mental strength. This persistence is valuable for young players facing similar challenges.

Conclusion:

Anuj Rawat’s IPL career is still a work in progress. With 318 runs in 24 matches, his numbers are modest. However, his talent is undeniable as shown by his performances in 2022 and 2024. The move to Gujarat Titans for 30 lakh gives him a fresh opportunity.

Key Takeaways: Three IPL teams: Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Gujarat Titans Best season: 2024 with 166 runs at strike rate of 136 Highest score: 66 against Mumbai Indians in 2022 Current team: Gujarat Titans from 2025 Age: 25 years old with time to establish himself

For Anuj Rawat, the next two seasons are crucial. He needs to grab opportunities with both hands. Consistent performances will determine his IPL future. The talent is there, now execution matters. Gujarat Titans have given him a platform, he must deliver.

His journey shows that IPL success requires talent, opportunity, and consistency. Rawat has the first two, now he needs the third. If he can find consistency, a long IPL career awaits. The potential is clear, the results must follow.

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