Tushar Deshpande has become a key player for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Over the years he has shown great improvement and established himself as one of the most reliable bowlers in the tournament.
In a recent chat with Crictracker Deshpande was asked which team he’d like to play for if not CSK. The 29-year-old fast bowler named Mumbai Indians (MI) as his preferred choice, expressing his dream to represent the franchise.
“If not CSK, I would love to get a bid from Mumbai Indians because it’s been my home team, and playing for your home team in front of your home crowd is a different feeling. I have played in Wankhede a couple of times,” Deshpande said.
He praised the electrifying atmosphere at the Wankhede Stadium, where he has played since his early days in domestic cricket for Mumbai.
“The atmosphere is completely different playing in front of your home crowd. Even if I was playing in the yellow jersey, people were cheering for me. So, I would love to have an opportunity to play for Mumbai Indians if not CSK,” he added.
Deshpande has delivered consistent performances in the IPL. In 36 matches he has taken 42 wickets with an average of 29.60 and an economy rate of 9.65. His recent seasons have been particularly impressive:
- IPL 2023: 21 wickets in 16 matches
- IPL 2024: 17 wickets in 13 matches
He has evolved as a skilled bowler both with the new ball and in death overs. Despite his strong form, CSK did not retain Deshpande ahead of the IPL 2025 auction.
It remains uncertain whether CSK will bid for him again or let another franchise, possibly Mumbai Indians, secure him. Deshpande’s IPL success earned him a spot in India’s squad for the T20I series against Zimbabwe after the 2024 T20 World Cup.
He has played two T20Is, taking 2 wickets with an average of 27.50 and an economy rate of 9.16. With his growing reputation, Deshpande will undoubtedly be a sought-after player in the upcoming IPL auction.
