Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fast bowler Tushar Deshpande shared how some motivational words from MS Dhoni helped inspire him ahead of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Despite a challenging start in the tournament, Deshpande emerged as a key figure in CSK’s pace attack, contributing significantly to the team’s fifth IPL title. During the 2023 season, CSK’s pace bowling unit was hit hard by injuries, with Ben Stokes, Deepak Chahar, Sisanda Magala, Simarjeet Singh, and Mukesh Choudhary all unavailable due to injury.
In this scenario, Deshpande stepped up, leading the attack alongside younger bowlers such as Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Matheesha Pathirana, and Akash Singh. Over the course of the season, Deshpande took 21 wickets in 16 matches, with an economy rate of 9.92.
Deshpande recalled a conversation with Dhoni during the IPL 2023 preparation camp at Chepauk that boosted his confidence.
Dhoni told him, “You have everything to succeed at the international level. But you need to stay calm during your run-up. Don’t get distracted by the crowd. Just take a deep breath, relax, and bowl.” Deshpande added, “If Mahi tells you that you have everything to succeed at the international level, that itself is an achievement.”
Even after an expensive spell in CSK’s season opener against Gujarat Titans, Dhoni remained supportive. He reassured Deshpande, saying, “You didn’t make any mistakes. You bowled well, but it just wasn’t your day. Do the same in the next match.”
Deshpande’s ability to take wickets in pressure situations became vital, and another piece of advice from Dhoni further shaped his mindset. During a net session, Dhoni emphasized sticking to his strengths.
“I was bowling yorkers, but after trying a bouncer that was hit for a huge six, Dhoni asked me why I did it. I told him I thought the batsman was expecting a yorker. Dhoni said, ‘Don’t overthink. A yorker is a yorker, and no one can hit you if it’s good,'” Deshpande shared.
Dhoni also reminded him to focus on his fitness, stressing its importance for fast bowlers.
Deshpande’s consistent performances earned him a national debut during India’s tour of Zimbabwe in July 2024, where he took 1-30 in his first match, securing his place for subsequent games.
