Just two months ago, a stylish left-hander from Tamil Nadu lit up the TNPL, becoming the driving force behind IDream Tiruppur Tamizhans’ fairytale title run.

If his explosive 77 off 46 in the final was the icing on the cake of a stellar campaign, then finishing as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 488 runs — the most in TNPL history — was the cherry on top.

Now, with the red-ball format taking centre-stage, Tushar Raheja has made the transition look effortless.

Representing TNCA XI in the Buchi Babu Tournament, he has already made a mark — with a composed 137 (216) against Mumbai, followed by a gritty 86 (144) against Haryana.

The 23-year-old spoke about adapting to the longer format and shared his aspirations for the upcoming season in an exclusive chat with the The Hindu.

“Transitioning from white-ball to red-ball cricket wasn’t too tough for me,” Tushar said. “It’s more about making small mental adjustments. We didn’t have much time for red-ball practice after the TNPL final, but as professionals, we have to adapt quickly. It’s all about getting into the right mental space”.

He also credited key conversations with head coach Tanveer Jabbar and selector Vasudevadas ahead of the Mumbai game for helping him find clarity.

“They encouraged me to play my natural game”, he said. “When selectors and coaches back you to play your way — even in red-ball cricket — it really helps”.

Looking ahead, Raheja remains grounded and focused, “My immediate goal is to do well in whatever chances I get. I’m taking it one game at a time and focusing on expressing myself every time I step onto the field.

“I’m not overthinking selection or the Ranji Trophy squad.

“If I continue to do the right things, that opportunity will come. Right now, I want to play positively — the way I enjoy — and if that brings results, even better”.