Avesh Khan, the India international seamer, has praised the Chambal Ghariyals for their balanced squad and fearless mindset, which have powered the team to an unbeaten run in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 2026. The Ghariyals are set to face the Jabalpur Royal Lions in the second semi-final at Holkar Stadium in Indore on Thursday.
Unbeaten Streak and Team Balance
The Chambal Ghariyals have emerged as one of the tournament's standout teams, entering the knockout stage with momentum. Speaking to ANI ahead of the semi-final, Avesh highlighted the team's depth and competitive spirit. "It feels great. The semi-finals and finals are still ahead. The team is playing exceptionally well. Our matches have been highly competitive. In one match, the opposing team scored 260 runs, and our batsmen chased it comfortably," he said.
Avesh, who has played eight ODIs and 25 T20Is for India and featured in every IPL season since 2017, credited the team's management for assembling a strong squad. "The team formed by our coach and owners is very balanced, with many talented players," he added.
Packed Schedule as Opportunity
The MPL features 10 teams, leading to a packed schedule. Avesh dismissed concerns about fatigue, viewing it as a positive. "We've had back-to-back matches in the group stages as well, so it won't be much of an issue. With 10 teams, you have to manage things somehow. I see it as an opportunity. More teams mean more players get a chance to show their potential and potentially get picked for the IPL," he explained.
As the only international cricketer in the Chambal squad, Avesh enjoys mentoring younger players. "There's no pressure at all. We've been winning, but from the first meeting, our focus was on giving our 100% effort, regardless of the result. When young players ask about the mentality of international cricketers, sharing my experience with them feels good. It's great to see their game improve," the 29-year-old told ANI.
Women's MPL and Talent Development
Avesh also commended the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) for promoting both men's and women's cricket through the franchise tournament. His comments followed Chambal Ghariyals Women's thrilling two-run victory over Gwalior Shernis in the 2026 MPL T20 Scindia Cup final. "It's a fantastic initiative for both men's and women's cricket. Increasing the number of teams gives more players exposure. It's a great platform for them to get noticed for Ranji Trophy camps, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournaments, and even IPL or WPL trials. There's a lot of talent in both categories," he said.
Emerging Performers and Key Stats
Asked about standout performers, Avesh highlighted several teammates: "In our team, players like Aman Bhadoria, Tripuresh Singh and Ankush Singh are doing very well. Ajay Rohera, Parth Chaudhary, and Parush Mandal are also doing well. There are talented players in every team who I think will be scouted by IPL teams."
The tournament has witnessed impressive individual performances. Jabalpur Royal Lions batter Ajay Rohera leads the run-scoring charts with 483 runs, while Gwalior Cheetahs' Parth Chaudhary has amassed 461 runs in eight matches. Parush Mandal tops the wicket-taking list with 19 scalps, and Avesh's teammate Tripuresh Singh has claimed 15 wickets for the Ghariyals. Ankush Singh remains Chambal's leading run-getter with 331 runs.
Helmet-Throw Celebration and Final Hopes
Avesh was asked if he would repeat his famous helmet-throw celebration, which he performed after Lucknow Super Giants' dramatic last-ball win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2023. "I only did that once four [three] years ago, and I don't understand why people are still so obsessed with it. If I'm on the field and we win, we'll see how it goes, but it's all about the emotions at that moment," Avesh said with a smile.
The winners of the second semi-final will meet the victors of the first semi-final between Royal Nimar Eagles and Rewa Jaguars in Friday's title clash at the same venue. With a place in the final at stake, Chambal Ghariyals will aim to continue their unbeaten run and complete a memorable MPL campaign.
