Deepak Chahar says he’ll miss playing with MS Dhoni but excited for new beginning with Mumbai Indians

April 27, 2024 – Indian fast bowler Deepak Chahar has officially joined the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise for a substantial sum of Rs9.25 crore, marking a significant shift in his Indian Premier League (IPL) career. In an exclusive interview with JioCinema, Chahar shared his enthusiasm for the move and his aspirations with his new team.

Chahar expressed mixed emotions about leaving the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), stating, “I had hoped to continue with CSK, but no regrets. I’ll definitely miss playing with MS Dhoni, but Mumbai Indians is a great franchise that has won five IPL trophies. I’m quite happy and really looking forward to contributing to MI’s success.”

The seasoned bowler also provided insights into his recent fitness and training regimen. “After the last IPL season, I went to the UK for training with a prominent football club. Upon returning, I participated in five Ranji Trophy matches, bowling approximately 150 overs, and am currently competing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Over the past six months, I have been maintaining a rigorous training schedule with the primary goal of earning a spot in the Indian national team again. This season is crucial for me to perform consistently across all 14 matches and make a strong case for my selection,” Chahar explained.

Chahar is optimistic about the prospects of Mumbai Indians in the upcoming IPL season. “MI has always been a dominant force in the IPL, securing five titles for clear reasons. The team looks strong this season, and I am thrilled to be a part of such a successful franchise. I aim to contribute significantly, both with the ball and the bat, as I didn’t get many opportunities to bat with CSK.”

Addressing his role as a bowler, particularly in the death overs, Chahar stated, “I thrive on challenges and am committed to performing at my best. While my role at CSK was well-defined, I anticipate having different responsibilities at MI. I am ready to adapt and excel in both bowling and batting to aid MI’s quest for more trophies. With Wankhede Stadium favoring seam bowling and my past performances there, I am confident in my ability to deliver for the team.”