White-ball success for Mumbai delights Tushar Deshpande

Mumbai’s Tushar Despande with the Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy

Speedster Tushar Deshpande, 27, who emerged Mumbai's highest wicket-taker in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) with 17 scalps, is not going to compromise on his pace. Deshpande was not in the squad for last season's Vijay Hazare Trophy and Ranji Trophy league games, but played a key role in helping Mumbai win their maiden SMAT title in Kolkata on Saturday.

"Prior to the start of this season, I told myself to be ready physically as this will be a full season. I didn't want to miss any game and my aim was to play each and every match and help Mumbai win. In an interview to MCA [Mumbai Cricket Association, social media handles] last month I said I wanted to win a white-ball tournament by putting up my best performance. I am delighted to help Mumbai win the Mushtaq Ali Trophy," Deshpande told mid-day on Sunday.

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The Mumbai bowler also credited skipper Ajinkya Rahane for constant support. "He [Rahane] gave me full freedom. He said, ‘bowl to your plan with your speed and back your strengths. I am open to give you whatever field settings you want.' So, he gave me confidence and that support was crucial. I will never compromise on speed even if I get hit for a boundaries, because speed is my strength. I was bowling at over 140kmph consistently and it paid dividends," Deshpande remarked.

Deshpande, who has claimed 62 domestic T20 wickets in 43 games, said: "My main target was to get wickets in the Power Play and at the death. I am expecting results for the way I have worked hard on my fitness and bowling skills."