19-05-2025
Atharva Ankolekar's INR 16.25L Mumbai T20 deal is more than money—it's a son's silent promise
An imposing performance in the previous season of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, capped by a match-winning display in the final, had set the stage for Atharva Ankolekar to be one of the hot picks at the T20 Mumbai League auction. Expectations were high—but what unfolded on the evening of May 8, 2025, exceeded even those.
It became a double celebration for the Ankolekar family.
Atharva, the left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder, was snapped up by Eagle Thane Strikers for a staggering INR 16.25 lakh, making him the most expensive auction buy. And in a heartwarming turn, his younger brother Parth Ankolekar also earned his first-ever contract in the league. For Atharva, the disappointment of going unsold at the IPL mega auction last November was firmly in the past, just like the years of struggle that shaped his journey.
As his mother beamed with pride watching Parth's name flash on the auction screen, Atharva felt a quiet resolve within—a promise to give back for everything his family had endured and supported.
In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, Atharva opened up on his rise as the top pick in the T20 Mumbai League, his brother's breakthrough moment, and his dreams of going bigger — the IPL, and eventually, the Indian team.
Thank you so much. I did feel that I would go expensive, but I did not expect to be the highest-bid player. I want to thank the Eagle Thane team for trusting me.
I had my eyes on the auction proceedings. Firstly, my name was not coming up because it was in the third set, so I became a bit tense. But when my name was called and the bidding process started, I controlled my nerves.
It's not about the pressure yet, but my responsibility has increased because they showed so much trust in me. It also subsequently offers an opportunity because all eyes will be on me. I love challenges, so I will enjoy it.
Whatever I have achieved until now is all because of my father and the sacrifices he made. He used to work night shifts in BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) so that he could help me practice during the day. After my father passed away, things became very difficult. But the way my mother handled it all, I just feel it's time to pay off.
She was very happy. More than me, she was happy for my brother (Parth Ankolekar, Bandra Blasters, INR 3 lakh), who also got sold at the auction.
He is a very aggressive captain and reads the situation very well. Look at IPL, he held the Purple Cap at one point in the season. Whatever way he contributes to the team will be very important for us. He puts in a lot of effort and shows a lot of involvement, whether during training sessions or matches.
I had already missed the league stage of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, because I was injured owing to an MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) tear. But everything happened smoothly thereafter. Yes the timing was a bit wrong, because I missed the auction and was not able to play. But I am happy that I was able to contribute in a winning cause in Mumbai lifting the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
It definitely helps. This season, many players were picked from the Delhi and UP leagues, so it will be immensely beneficial for the Mumbai league players to earn that promotion and make it through to the IPL and probably then to the Indian team.
I would not want to think that. I would rather take it game by game. I would just want to perform to the best of my abilities. The only pressure I would want to put on myself is that I want to be part of the winning team. If my team is winning, then I would want to have my contributions there. I want to help Eagle Thane win.
That will always stay at the back of my mind. But again, one game at a time. I don't want to think that far ahead.
Of course, it inspires me. We were all part of the same dressing room then, and I am really happy for them. All I wish is I get to be in the same dressing room as them again, but now for the Indian team.
I haven't met him, though. Just saw him from afar (smiles). His intent and game involvement are what I admire the most. Even if he does not have a good day with the bat or bowl, he covers it up with his fielding and can help the team win.
I want to send out a special thanks to Suryakumar Yadav for trusting me. When I got an opportunity, he played a huge role in that. He helped me a lot, right from my early days. What inspires me about him is his ability to switch on and switch off on match days. On the field, he is full-on intent, but once the game ends, he is chill.
