Will Tushar Deshpande Bring His A-Game to England After IPL 2025 Return?

New Delhi, May 29 (NationPress) There was significant surprise when Tushar Deshpande was named in the India ‘A’ squad for the upcoming red-ball series against the England Lions, beginning in Canterbury on May 30. Given that recent selections have heavily weighed on performances in the Ranji Trophy, Deshpande's inclusion raised eyebrows.

This unexpected selection is understandable considering that Deshpande had to sit out the entire last domestic season due to an ankle injury that required surgery, shortly after he made his debut for India during the T20I tour of Zimbabwe in July 2024.

According to sources, Deshpande's impressive attributes—his fast pace and knack for taking wickets—were evident as he took 15 wickets during Mumbai’s successful Ranji Trophy campaign in the 2023/24 season. The national selectors are keen on having a diverse pool of fast bowlers, which contributed to his selection for the India ‘A’ team in Canterbury.

“It has been a long time since Tushar has played. He missed the entire season, but he showed great form in the IPL matches he played. It is a positive sign that the selectors have faith in him despite his previous injury,” remarked Dhawal Kulkarni, a former Indian fast bowler, in an interview with IANS.

In IPL 2025, Deshpande made his return to competitive cricket; though he claimed only nine wickets over ten games at an economy of 10.63, Kulkarni, who served as Mumbai’s bowling consultant, believes the conditions in England will suit Deshpande well, particularly with the Dukes ball.

“Deshpande possesses a decent bowling pace and can swing the ball effectively. Bowling with the Dukes ball differs from using the Kookaburra or SG ball, as it offers more swing. The conditions in England are favorable for bowlers looking to swing the ball, indicating a promising tour for Tushar,” he added.

Deshpande made his first-class debut in 2016 but became a regular in the Mumbai setup starting in the 2018/19 season. Kulkarni has closely observed Deshpande's development and believes that his enthusiasm for gaining experience through domestic matches has contributed to his growth as a player.

“With the experience he has gained, he has matured both as a cricketer and a bowler. To succeed at the highest level, one must accumulate experience through domestic cricket. Tushar has always been eager to play domestic matches, which has served him well,” he added.

“Over time, he has become a key bowler for Mumbai, known for his pace and consistency. His disciplined approach to fitness and continuous self-reflection on his bowling have yielded positive results,” he concluded.