Punit Balan Group’s (PBG) Kolhapur Tuskers are set to make waves in the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) Season 3, blending seasoned players with fresh talent to create a formidable squad. Retaining 11 core players, including skipper Rahul Tripathi and vice-captain Shrikant Mundhe, the team has added 18 new faces through auctions, expanding its roster to 29 players the largest in the league. The highlight of the auction was Rajneesh Gurbani, the pace bowler who fetched the highest bid of ₹5.20 lakh, signaling PBG’s intent to bolster its bowling attack.
The Tuskers’ retained players Ankeet Bawne, Sachin Dhas, and Nihal Tusamad among them bring experience from previous seasons, including their 2024 finals appearance. New recruits like all-rounder Atharv Vanve, batter Digvijay Jadhav, and spinner Sunil Yadav add depth to the lineup, with a focus on nurturing emerging talent. “We’ve balanced continuity and innovation,” said PBG President Punit Balan, emphasizing the team’s goal to dominate the league while contributing players to Team India.
Modeled after the IPL, the MPL has quickly become a crucial platform for Maharashtra’s cricketers. Season 3 features six teams, including Puneri Bappa, Raigad Royals, and Ratnagiri Jets, competing across venues like Pune’s MCA Stadium. The league’s emphasis on local talent has drawn comparisons to state-level T20 tournaments, with matches expected to begin in June 2025.
Having narrowly missed the title in 2024, the Tuskers are determined to clinch their maiden championship. “Last season’s heartbreak fuels us,” said Tripathi, referencing their 7-wicket playoff victory and consistent performances. The squad’s mix of youth and experience aims to tackle challenges like the Eagle Nashik Titans and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Kings, teams known for aggressive gameplay.