How is Solanki Planning for Redemption After MPL Final Loss?

New Delhi, May 26 (NationPress) The captain of the Eagles Nashik Titans, Prashant Solanki, guided his team to the finals of the 2024 Maharashtra Premier League, but ultimately faced defeat against the Ratnagiri Jets in the final showdown.

Drawing upon his experiences with MS Dhoni at the Chennai Super Kings, the 25-year-old is determined to push his team past the finish line and correct the mistakes from their last encounter, which ended in a 34-run loss.

“Finals, regardless of the tournament, come with their own unique pressures. We played exceptional cricket leading up to the final, but there was just one inning where we faltered. It was disheartening because everyone strives to win the final and hoist that trophy,” Solanki remarked to IANS.

“Our process in that game wasn’t up to par, which likely led to our inability to succeed. While the mindset remains unchanged, we must focus on correcting what went wrong. The next time we find ourselves in such significant situations, we’ll aim to maximize that opportunity,” he added.

Solanki, a right-arm leg-spin bowler from Mumbai, first joined the Chennai Super Kings in 2022, having previously been a net bowler for the team. His services were acquired for INR 1.2 crore. He made his IPL debut against the Gujarat Titans at Wankhede Stadium. Though he didn’t take any wickets in his first match, he claimed the scalps of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shimron Hetmyer in his next match against the Rajasthan Royals.

When asked about the insights he gained from MS Dhoni, one of India’s all-time great captains, Solanki commented, “Everyone mentions his calm demeanor. He simplifies everything. I believe a huge part of his success stems from the transparency he maintains with bowlers and the coaching staff.”

“I also strive to remain composed during high-pressure moments or take a deep breath to clear my mind and make informed decisions. That moment of breathing has proven helpful, as I’ve observed he often takes that extra second in pressure situations, whether batting or leading. That extra second can make a significant difference,” he elaborated.

State-level T20 tournaments play a crucial role for young players aspiring to make their mark. A prime example is Priyansh Arya from Punjab Kings, whose career soared following an outstanding performance in the 2024 Delhi Premier League.

Another example is Solanki’s teammate, Arshin Kulkarni. The all-rounder earned a spot on the India U19 squad after his performances in last year’s MPL and was later signed by the Lucknow Super Giants for a base price of INR 30 lakh.

Solanki emphasized the significance of these tournaments due to the visibility they offer to emerging talents. “These tournaments are vital for us. As you pointed out, players shine through their local leagues. We had our own heroes in state leagues. Our team featured Arshin Kulkarni, who scored a brilliant century in the inaugural MPL and subsequently played for India U19 and entered the IPL realm with LSG. Our squad includes several IPL players like Mukesh Chaudhary and myself. Such tournaments are essential for us youngsters to make an impression, attract attention, and catch the eye of IPL scouts who watch these matches,” he stated.

“Moreover, we enjoy cricket within our state framework, where all quality players compete. The healthy competition, quality grounds, and Kookaburra balls—everything feels like a mini IPL in our own state. It’s a fantastic experience and a tremendous opportunity for every young player striving to make their mark,” Solanki concluded.