Yogesh Takawale

Playing cricket and fulfilling his late father's dream was all that this Maharashtra-born cricketer wanted. Yogesh Takawale comes from a poor family background, but aims for the sky.

A talented right-handed batsman, Takawale was first chosen to represent his state in a Ranji Trophy game against the Railways in 2006. Also an able wicket-keeper, he initially started out as a specialist batsman, but his keeping abilities turned out to be equally impressive. A decent fifty against the visiting Australians and topping the batting charts of the following Ranji season earned him a place in the Mumbai squad for the 2008 IPL. He had a learning experience there, playing amongst the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and other senior players and he also enjoyed a short trip to Israel with a fringe Indian squad.

However, despite being in good form, Takawale was ignored by the selectors to play first-class cricket for his home team post the IPL. Having played for Maharashtra from age-group levels and not being offered a place even in form, resulted in him switching to Tripura in the 2010-11 domestic season. In the Indian T20 league, 2014 player auction, Bangalore bought him for Rs.10 lakhs.