From January 9 to February 6, 2026, eight top teams and explosive batters promise a power-packed cricketing carnival at Lalbhai Contractor Stadium.
The excitement around the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), India’s first professional tennis-ball T10 cricket tournament, is set to soar once again as the league gears up for its third season. Scheduled from January 9 to February 6, 2026, at the Lalbhai Contractor Stadium in Surat, Season 3 promises to bring a fresh wave of energy, passion, and entertainment for cricket lovers across the country.
Recognized for its fast-paced format and thrilling matches, ISPL has rapidly evolved into one of the nation’s most talked-about cricketing events. The league’s vision, spearheaded by its core committee members — Sachin Tendulkar, Ashish Shelar, Minal Amol Kale, and Suraj Samat — focuses on nurturing grassroots talent, inclusivity, and creating professional opportunities for tennis-ball cricketers.
As cricket enthusiasts count down the days to the season opener, eight exciting franchises — Majhi Mumbai, Chennai Singams, Tiigers of Kolkata, Falcon Risers Hyderabad, Bengaluru Strikers, Srinagar Ke Veer, Ahmedabad Lions, and Delhi Superheros — are set to battle for glory in a league that perfectly blends skill and entertainment.
This season, a galaxy of proven match-winners and emerging stars will step onto the field, each eager to leave their mark. From explosive power hitters to calm finishers, every franchise boasts game-changers capable of turning the tide in an instant. As anticipation builds, here’s a look at five batsmen to watch out for in ISPL Season 3, who could define the tournament with their performances.
Vijay Pawle – The Speed Master of Majhi Mumbai
A familiar name among ISPL fans, Vijay Pawle of Majhi Mumbai enters Season 3 as one of the league’s biggest attractions. Known as the “Speed Master” of Indian tennis-ball cricket, Pawle is famous for his explosive batting, sharp game sense, and fearless approach.
At the ISPL Season 3 auction, Pawle became the highest-ever bid in the league’s history, fetching a massive Rs 32.50 lakh through the Right to Match (RTM) card. His all-round skills and leadership qualities make him one of the most valuable assets in the league.
After leading Majhi Mumbai to the Season 2 title, Pawle’s focus now shifts to defending the crown. Having previously won the Best Fielder Award in ISPL Season 1, he continues to showcase his athleticism and commitment to excellence. Fans can expect vintage Pawle — powerful sixes, quick runs, and moments of brilliance under pressure.
Ketan Mhatre – The Firestarter from Chennai Singams
When it comes to fearless batting at the top of the order, Ketan Mhatre of Chennai Singams stands out as one of the most destructive openers in ISPL history. Hailing from Waklan village in Thane district, Mhatre brings an aggressive brand of cricket that excites fans and unsettles bowlers.
Retained for Rs 26.40 lakh via RTM, Mhatre was the second-highest bid at the Season 3 auction — a testament to his immense value. His career strike rate of 180.75 across 16 ISPL matches speaks volumes about his consistency and attacking mindset.
For Chennai Singams, Mhatre remains the key to setting the tone early. His ability to clear boundaries within the first few overs often gives his team the upper hand. As the league’s most dynamic opener, he will once again look to dominate from the very first ball.
Saif Ali (Sagar Ali) – The Dependable Star from Tiigers of Kolkata
Consistency meets class when you talk about Saif Ali, popularly known as Sagar Ali, from Tiigers of Kolkata. The left-handed batter from Kashiara village in Bardhaman district, West Bengal, has been one of the standout performers since ISPL’s inception.
Purchased for Rs 23.65 lakh in the Season 3 auction, Saif has already built a remarkable ISPL record. He became the first player in league history to score back-to-back fifties, a feat that highlights both his temperament and adaptability.
With 595 runs and four half-centuries in 19 matches across two seasons, Saif is known for his steadiness during high-pressure moments. Having also represented West Bengal at youth level, his maturity and technical ability add depth to Tiigers of Kolkata’s batting lineup.
Fardeen Kazi – The Finisher Bengaluru Strikers Depend On
Few players can handle pressure quite like Fardeen Kazi. His last-ball six during a thriller against Chennai Singams in Season 2 became one of the most iconic moments in ISPL history. That unforgettable knock showcased Kazi’s calmness and tactical brilliance, turning a near-impossible chase into victory.
Acquired by Bengaluru Strikers for Rs 22.30 lakh, Kazi now brings his finishing skills to a new setup. Known for delivering when it matters most, he thrives under pressure and is expected to play a pivotal role during tense run chases. Bengaluru fans will look to him as the go-to match-winner capable of changing games in just a few deliveries.
Jagannath Sarkar – The Rising Force of Chennai Singams
Rounding out the list is Jagannath Sarkar, one of the brightest emerging talents in the league. Hailing from Tarakeswar, West Bengal, Sarkar has steadily grown into a key figure for Chennai Singams. Retained for Rs 20.02 lakh, he enters Season 3 brimming with confidence following a breakthrough campaign.
In ISPL Season 2, Sarkar amassed 226 runs across 10 matches, finishing as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament. His combination of timing, aggression, and maturity has made him an exciting prospect to watch. As Chennai Singams chase their maiden title, Sarkar’s role as an opener will be crucial.
A Season of Entertainment Awaits
With ISPL Season 3 ready to unfold in Surat, fans can look forward to a cricketing spectacle unlike any other. The blend of elite players, rising stars, and thrilling T10 action promises pure entertainment.
As these top batsmen prepare to take the field, one thing is certain — ISPL Season 3 will redefine the boundaries of tennis-ball cricket once again, delivering unforgettable moments, close finishes, and electrifying performances for fans across India.
