Maharashtra Premier League: Kolhapur Tuskers rope in Kedar Jadhav as icon player

The Kolhapur Tuskers, owned by the Punit Balan Group, are leaving no stones unturned in their quest to assemble a formidable team for the upcoming Maharashtra Premier League (MPL).

Under the patronage of the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA), the highly-anticipated tournament is scheduled to take place from June 15-29, 2023, at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

Naushad Shaikh, an all-rounder with the ability to bowl off-spin, emerged as the tournament's costliest buy when Kolhapur Tuskers bagged him in a fiercely competitive MPL auction.

The team secured Naushad's services for a significant sum of Rs 6 lakh, highlighting their confidence in his exceptional skills and contribution to the team's success. Known for his explosive batting and crafty bowling, Naushad is set to provide the team with a valuable all-round performance on the field.

Kedar Jadhav has been named the icon player for the Kolhapur Tuskers. Jadhav's leadership qualities and immense cricketing knowledge will guide and inspire the side throughout the tournament. His presence brings a wealth of experience and a strong batting presence to the Kolhapur Tuskers, making him a vital asset to the team's success.

In addition to Naushad and Jadhav, the Kolhapur Tuskers have strategically acquired talented players to bolster their squad. Taranjit Dhillon, an off-spin bowler, joins the team for a price of 1.6 lakhs, bringing accuracy and deception to the bowling attack.

Ankit Bawane, a right-handed batsman with a first-class average of over 50 was acquired for 2.8 lakhs, his solid batting technique adds stability to the team's middle order.

Sachin Dhas, also a right-handed batsman with an average over 55+ was purchased for 1.5 lakhs, and his proficiency in stroke play makes him a valuable asset in the team's batting lineup.

Sahil Autade, a talented wicket-keeper batsman bought for 3.8 lakhs brings power-hitting capabilities to the middle order, capable of changing the game's momentum.

The Kolhapur Tuskers' participation in the Maharashtra Premier League is a testament to the Punit Balan Group's commitment to promoting and encouraging various sports in the country.

With franchises already established in Ultimate Table Tennis, Pro Panja League, Premier Handball League, Premier Badminton League, Ultimate Kho Kho, Tennis Premier League, and Motocross, the Punit Balan Group continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the Olympic sports movement in India.

The addition of the Kolhapur Tuskers further strengthens their commitment to showcasing the best talent across different sporting disciplines. Expressing his enthusiasm and confidence in the team's potential, Punit Balan, owner of Kolhapur Tuskers and Chairman & Managing Director, Punit Balan Group, stated, "We are thrilled to be a part of the MPL Men's T20 Cricket Tournament.

We nd firmly believe that the Kolhapur Tuskers have the potential to emerge victorious. We have assembled a strong and talented team for the Tournament. Our team comprises exceptional players who have displayed tremendous dedication and talent. We are confident that they will make our franchise and fans proud."

Kolhapur Tuskers are prepared to face stiff competition from other renowned franchises in the MPL. Cricket enthusiasts and fans can expect an exhilarating display of cricketing brilliance as the Kolhapur Tuskers.

MPL 2023: Kolhapur Tuskers Squad and Money:

Kedar Jadhav (Icon player)

Naushad Shaikh (Rs 6,00,000)

Sahil Autade (3,80,000)

Ankit Bawane (2,80,000)

Taranjit Dhillon (1,60,000)

Sachin Dhas (1,50,000)

Shreyash Chavan (90,000)

Kirtiraj Wadekar (20,000)

Akshay Darekar (80,000)

Manoj Yadav (60,000)

Vidya Tiwari (60,000)