12 November,2026 08:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Vivek Shelar
The fastest bowler in the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), Vivek Shelar, has earned a maiden call-up in Maharashtra's squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).
Hailing from Bhiwandi, the 26-year-old speedster has delivered impressive performances in his debut ISPL season. Representing Tiigers of Kolkata, Shelar claimed nine wickets, including a hat-trick in the eliminator. He also clocked a speed of 145.2 kmph during the tournament.
Expressing his views on the maiden call-up, the pacer credited ISPL and said the selectors backed him after watching his performances in the league.
"Only because of ISPL and my performances there, I was called up to practise during Rajasthan Royals' trials. The selectors backed me after watching my performances and the speeds I clocked in the ISPL," said Shelar.
The 26-year-old cricketer then said his goal is to make an appearance in the Indian Premier League (IPL), but will focus on helping Maharashtra win the SMAT title.
"Now that I have been selected for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, I will try to give my best there and hopefully get selected in the IPL. That will be my goal, but first, I will try to help Maharashtra win," he said.
He then said that ISPL has been an important platform for tennis-ball cricketers. He also revealed that one of his goals is to win the "Best Bowler" award in SMAT.
"For tennis cricket, it is the number one platform. You never know, anyone can be picked directly for the IPL from there. It is that big. The first goal is to help the team win. The second goal, as a bowler, is to win the 'Best Bowler' award and give my best," said Shelar.
Abhishek Dalhor, who was called up as a net bowler for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) a couple of seasons ago, and Irfan Umair, who earned a call-up to Mumbai's senior state team, both began their journeys through the ISPL, which has become a sustainable platform for tennis-ball cricketers to earn their livelihoods and showcase their talent.
"For tennis cricket, it is the number one platform.
(With PTI Inputs)
