HP Patel is a domestic bowler with 6 SMAT seasons and one of the more complete bowling datasets on our prospect list. He has bowled 547 balls, taken 32 wickets, and maintained an economy of 6 across 91 overs. Every number comes from SMAT. No international or franchise data exists.

The economy sits 2 runs below the IPL 2025 middle-overs average of 9. His bowling strike rate of 17 balls per wicket puts him in the steady category: not a strike weapon, but a bowler who takes wickets at a rate that prevents opponents from settling.

The 547 ball sample makes this one of the more reliable projections on our list. The model has enough data to separate Patel's individual skill from population averages with reasonable accuracy. Over 6 seasons, he has shown no dramatic swings. Consistency has been his defining trait.

Patel barely bats: 4 runs off 10 balls across 3 innings. He is selected for bowling alone.

The projection: 0.18 WAR/M for 2026 at medium confidence with a rising trajectory. The sub-replacement figure is frustrating given the solid economy. The model applies a domestic-to-IPL discount and weights the average (not elite) strike rate. At IPL level, his projected economy of 8 to 9 would be useful but not transformative.

The rising trajectory is encouraging. It means his most recent SMAT output has been the strongest of his career. If the next season confirms that upward trend, the projection would shift.

For IPL teams, Patel profiles as a reliable Indian bowling depth pick. He will not win you matches by himself, but he will not lose them either. That predictability has genuine value at base price. He steps in when the primary attack is unavailable, bowls his overs without incident, and gives the captain control. That is a meaningful contribution for a squad bowler.

All numbers from SMAT (Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy) and domestic T20 career data.