Mumbai: One of the strengths of the Mumbai Indians’ squad is the quality of the domestic players. The likes of Ambati Rayudu, even before he played International cricket, have done well for the Mumbai Indians on a consistent basis. And another name that can be taken in that league is that of Aditya Tare. The man, who keeps wickets and bats, has played some remarkable knocks for the Paltan. And like many others, he is also looking forward to another successful IPL Season, which is just less than a month away. In an exclusive chat with the mumbaiindians.com, Tare spoke about various aspects of the game, his first-class Season, and his potential competition with Parthiv Patel, who is also part of the Mumbai Indians squad.

On the Ranji Trophy Season for Mumbai…

Tare: “It was a good season. We are a young side, but the team is confident. We were struggling early on, but turned things around in time. We missed the final, but it was a good season overall. First class cricket is very important in the development of a cricketer, and I am happy with the way I played”.

On taking over captaincy at a tough time…

Tare: “It’s true that when I took over, things were not looking great. (Mumbai were on the verge of being knocked out at the league stage.) But, I am really happy with the way we turned the things around. I enjoyed leading the side and taking the responsibility”.

On turning things around in the last two league games…

Tare: “Like I said, it’s a young side. But the boys were really confident, and we took it as an opportunity to prove ourselves. The Baroda game was a kind of make or break, and once we won that, I think we were back in it”.

On his strong batting performance as a captain…

Tare: “I like to lead the side, I enjoy the responsibility. As a captain, I feel I need to set an example, and lead by example. And I am happy I was able to do that with my batting”.

On competition with Parthiv Patel in the Mumbai Indians squad…

Tare: “I think any healthy competition is good. I am really happy and proud to be in the Mumbai Indians’ squad. I love to play, and perform. I am sure both me and Parthiv will learn a lot from each other. I am looking forward to the new season, and perform”.

On the possibility to play as a pure batsman…

Tare: “Like I said, I love to play. I would be happy to play as a batsman, if the team wants me to do that. For me, playing is important, not the role”.

On his journey with the Mumbai Indians so far…

Tare: “The experience of playing in the IPL has changed my career. It has helped me grow as a player and as a person. It has helped me improve my game, and I just hope it goes on and on”.