Tushar Deshpande has been named the Icon Player for the Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals ahead of their debut in the T20 Mumbai League. Known for his fiery pace and aggressive bowling, the 29-year-old will lead the franchise rooted in Mumbai’s cricketing heartland, with Shivaji Park at its core. Currently playing for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025, Deshpande brings rich experience and strong local connect to the team. Excited to represent his roots, he said joining the Royals felt special as he began his cricket journey in Shivaji Park. With him at the forefront, the Royals aim for a strong first season.
Tushar Deshpande Named Icon Player for Maratha Royals Ahead of T20 Mumbai League Debut
Mumbai pacer Tushar Deshpande has been officially unveiled as the face of the newly-formed Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals for their debut in Season 3 of the T20 Mumbai League. Picked as the Icon Player during the auction at MCA’s Wankhede Stadium, Tushar Deshpande brings both firepower and local pride to the team. The 29-year-old is known for his aggressive fast bowling and has been in fine form for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025. His leadership is expected to set the tone for a team built on the strong cricketing culture of South-Central Mumbai, with iconic areas like Shivaji Park, Parel, and Worli forming its foundation.
Deshpande expressed his excitement about joining the franchise, saying, “It’s always special to start something new, especially in a team that represents where you come from. I took my first cricket steps in Shivaji Park, and I feel a deep connection to the region and the Royals’ vision.” His journey from Kalyan to Dadar and his development at Shivaji Park Gymkhana mirrors the hard-working, passionate cricketing ethos the franchise wants to represent. Known for his high-intensity performances, he will serve not only as the team’s spearhead on the field but also as a culture-setter in the dressing room.
The Royals, owned by Alisha Baheti, aim to reflect the gritty, cricket-obsessed spirit of Mumbai’s South-Central belt. “This area breathes cricket, and we wanted someone who lives and understands that. Tushar is that player,” she said. Team mentor Abhishek Nayar also praised the signing, stating, “Tushar brings not just skill, but experience and the right mindset to build something special.”
With Tushar Deshpande leading the charge and INR 85 lakh left in their player auction budget, the Royals are preparing to build a strong 18-member squad to make their presence felt in the upcoming tournament. The T20 Mumbai League begins on May 26 and runs until June 8, with all matches taking place at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
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