Vivek Shelkar Achieves Dream Selection in Maharashtra Cricket Team

New Delhi, November 13 (Daily Kiran) : Fast bowler Vivek Shelkar has described his selection for the Maharashtra team in the 2026 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy as a significant milestone in his cricketing journey. The 26-year-old from Bhiwandi gained attention during the third season of the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), where he took nine wickets, including two hat-tricks. Despite his team, the Tigers of Kolkata, losing to the Chennai Singham in the finals, Shelkar’s performance earned him a spot in the Maharashtra team for the upcoming tournament starting Saturday.

In an interview, Shelkar expressed his excitement about achieving what he considers a dream. “Getting selected for the state team feels like a dream come true. Playing for the state is every player’s aspiration, and now mine is becoming a reality. However, I still have many more dreams to fulfill,” he said.

Shelkar made headlines in the ISPL by bowling at speeds of 145.2 km/h, which played a crucial role in his rise to prominence. He credited the league for helping him gain visibility, stating, “The ISPL was very important. It brought me into the spotlight, especially when I bowled the fastest delivery.”

While the ISPL uses a tennis ball, Indian domestic and international cricket is played with a traditional leather ball. Shelkar noted that the transition from tennis to leather involved a significant mental adjustment. “The preparation for both types of balls is different, but the mindset is what truly matters. I practice with both tennis and leather balls now, and I’ve adapted my mentality to make the transition easier,” he explained.

Shelkar’s cricketing journey began in 2016 in his village, where he played with a tennis ball. His selection for the Tigers of Kolkata marked a turning point in his career. “I started playing cricket in 2016 in my village with a tennis ball. I performed well, and when I joined the ISPL, everything changed. I bowled well and caught people’s attention,” he recounted.

He also shared the challenges he faced when he suffered a hamstring injury shortly after the tournament’s second match. Shelkar expressed gratitude to Aksha Kamboj, chairperson of Aspect Sports and owner of the Tigers of Kolkata, for her support during his recovery. “She helped me a lot. After my injury, I went to the hospital and was back on my feet within eight days. I returned and took two hat-tricks after recovering. I owe it to her and the team for giving me another chance to play,” he said.

Shelkar is now focused on performing well for Maharashtra, with aspirations for an IPL contract in the future. “First, I will concentrate on this tournament, then I will aim for the IPL. Let’s see what happens next,” he remarked.

He looks up to Indian star Rohit Sharma and South African legend Dale Steyn, admiring Steyn’s aggressive style, speed, and swing. “Rohit Sharma and Dale Steyn are my idols. I admire Steyn’s aggressive approach and everything he brings to the game,” Shelkar added.