INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE | VIRAT KOHLI BECOMES FIRST TO PLAY ALL 19 IPL SEASONS
New Delhi, April 5: South Africa fast-bowling great Dale Steyn is impressed by Tushar Deshpande’s performance this IPL season, saying the Rajasthan Royals seamer’s composure and execution in the final over against Gujarat Titans must attract the national selectors’ attention.
Deshpande has started the 2026 IPL season strongly for the Rajasthan Royals, delivering a match-winning performance against the Gujarat Titans by defending 10 runs in the final over in Ahmedabad on Saturday.
On how Deshpande outsmarted Rashid Khan in the last over, Steyn told broadcaster Star Sports, “The final over bowled by Tushar Deshpande was exceptional. He executed his yorkers perfectly under pressure, did not give any chances to a player like Rashid Khan to find the boundary and he ensured his team did not suffer any hiccups in the final over of a 200-plus run chase.
“It is very difficult for a bowler to stay calm in such a high-pressure situation because a lot of things go through your mind. But, to ensure your plans are executed perfectly without feeling the pressure is a rare skill.” Steyn added, “Tushar Deshpande bowled in a fearless manner and this bowling performance will ensure that the Indian selectors don’t take their eyes off him this IPL season.” (PTI)
