Shashank Attarde tips Yashasvi Jaiswal to take Indian cricket forward

In the ongoing T20 Mumbai League, Eagle Thane Strikers have emerged as one of the standout teams, securing a well-deserved spot in the semi-finals. A significant contributor to their success has been spin-bowling all-rounder Shashank Attarde, who has consistently delivered impactful performances under the leadership of Atharva Ankolekar.

When asked about the standout performers in IPL 2025, Attarde highlighted fellow Mumbai batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan as the players he believes have the potential to elevate Team India to remarkable heights.

Attarde, representing the Thane-based outfit, has featured in five matches so far and has proven to be a vital cog in the team’s bowling attack. The seasoned campaigner has picked up 10 wickets, showcasing his ability to break partnerships and apply pressure in key phases of the game. Boasting an impressive bowling average of 13.10 and an economy rate of just 6.55, the right-arm off-spinner has demonstrated remarkable control and consistency on the field.

His disciplined spells and knack for picking up timely wickets have played a crucial role in tilting the momentum in Thane Strikers’ favour throughout the tournament.

With the semi-final showdown looming, Shashank’s experience and form will be pivotal as the team eyes a place in the final. Ahead of the crucial clash, Attarde opened up about his cricketing journey in an interview with mid-day. A native of Jalgaon, Maharashtra, the spin all-rounder began nurturing his passion for cricket during his school days, laying the foundation for what would become a promising professional career.

When asked about the cricketing infrastructure in Jalgaon, he said, “Compared to Mumbai, there are slightly fewer facilities in Jalgaon, but over time it has seen some initial growth. Also, new clubs have been coming up, which will help other players grow in the field.” He also further credited Jain Sports Academy for shaping his career in the early stages.

In India, cricket is not just a sport, but a religion. Growing up, many aspire to become the next Sachin Tendulkar or Virat Kohli. But for Shashank, his biggest inspiration has always been his parents.

“If you ask me about my role model, my parents have played a huge role in supporting me since childhood. But I also look up to Team India’s spin veteran Ravichandran Ashwin. Over the years, I’ve been analysing his bowling in both T20 and Test cricket,” said the 33-year-old.

In the ongoing T20 Mumbai League, Shashank is also the joint-highest wicket-taker, alongside North Mumbai Panthers’ Pratik Mishra.

Speaking about his preparation behind the scenes, he shared, “I keep playing different T20 matches all the time. Also, consistency and practice help you bring out a better version of yourself,” the right-arm off-break bowler told mid-day.

Ahead of their all-important clash against the Siddhesh Lad-led Maratha Royals, the right-hander is all geared up for the challenge.

Skipper Lad and Chinmay Suthar have been in red-hot form in the Maratha dugout. When asked if he has any plans against the in-form duo, Attarde replied, “Obviously, they have been playing really well. For now, there are no specific plans against them, but it also depends on the pitch conditions for the semi-final match.”

So far, having played five matches in the tournament, the spinner said he hasn’t faced any particular difficulty against any player or team.

Expressing confidence in his side’s chances of securing victory over the Maratha Royals, Attarde said that teamwork and individual brilliance will play a crucial role in the team’s success at the Wankhede encounter.

This article first appeared on Mid Day