Pacer Vivek Shelar credits ISPL success for Maharashtra selection
The 26-year-old bowler attributed his Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy call-up to his performances and bowling speeds in the Indian Street Premier League.
Bhiwandi-based pacer Vivek Shelar has been selected for the Maharashtra squad for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, according to ANI. Shelar, 26, credited his selection to his performances in the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), where he clocked a speed of 145.2 kph.
During his maiden ISPL season with the Tigers of Kolkata, Shelar took nine wickets, including a hat-trick in the eliminator. The Tigers of Kolkata is a team co-owned by Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Sourav Ganguly.
Shelar said the selectors backed him after watching his performances and speeds in the ISPL. He noted that his success in the league also led to a call-up to practise during Rajasthan Royals' trials.
The pacer stated that his goal is to help Maharashtra win and eventually get selected for the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also mentioned that the availability of the ISPL on JioHotstar has allowed his family to watch him on television.
The Maharashtra squad includes players such as Ruturaj Gaikwad and Prithvi Shaw. The ISPL Season 4 Auctions are scheduled to take place in Mumbai on November 15.
Shelar, who aims to represent India in the long term, said his immediate goal is to help his team win and to aim for the 'Best Bowler' award.