Siddhesh Lad’s debut match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) won’t be forgotten in a hurry as Mumbai Indians successfully chased a target of 198 to beat Kings XI Punjab by 3 wickets at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday. Lad, who opened the innings for MI instead of an injured Rohit Sharma, didn’t look out of place out in the middle during his brief, but entertaining time at the crease.

The 26-year-old local boy from Mumbai had to wait for his opportunity but spoke of his pride at finally donning MI colours in an exclusive chat with mumbaiindians.com. “It’s always a proud feeling. Was waiting for it for years. I would like to thank my team management. They showed love and confidence towards me. Finally, I made my debut. Really proud. I waited for five years to make my debut. I always wanted to play for MI. Playing for MI is like a dream come true. We play like a family. We are a family. I’m really proud,” Lad enthused.

If the first two balls which he faced – that he smashed for a six and a four – has anything to suggest then it looks like Lad has an entertaining and bright future ahead. Recalling his first ball in the IPL, Lad revealed: “I never thought of hitting a six on my first ball (in the IPL). He bowled a short ball and then my bat went at it and it went for a six.”

Lad also lavished praise on stand-in skipper for the game, Kieron Pollard. The powerful Trinidadian scored a match-winning 83 and Lad explained how everyone in the dugout believed that Pollard would get MI to a win against the odds. “Everyone believes in him. Every year he plays such type of innings. We knew if Pollard stays till the end, he will get the match close and there would be strong chances of winning if he stays till the last over. We all believed that Pollard can do it. Really happy for him. The main thing is that we needed wickets in hand. Till Krunal (Pandya) and (Kieron) Pollard were there I had full belief. After that a good boundary from Alzarri Joseph just lifted Polly’s confidence and he played a fantastic knock.” Lad opined.

When asked about the ambience of an IPL match at the Wankhede, Lad added: “The Wankhede crowd is a pure joy to watch. I have been watching them for five years. The amount of support we get from the fans is unbelievable. I love my fans.”