Krishna Satpute is a prominent name in Indian tennis ball cricket, renowned for his powerful batting and significant contributions to the sport. He has been a key player in the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), where his performances have garnered widespread acclaim. In the ISPL Season 2 auction, Krishna was acquired by Falcon Risers Hyderabad for ₹8.5 lakhs, underscoring his value in the league.
In an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal, Krishna shares insights into his cricketing journey, social media presence which provides fans with a closer look into his experiences and interactions within the cricketing community. Excerpts from the interview
Were there any challenges you faced while making a name in tennis ball cricket?
Challenges were my daily reality. Losing my parents meant there was no financial support—I struggled to afford food, let alone cricket gear. I worked odd jobs, earning ₹50 a day, and often relied on my teammates for help. There were days when I wondered if I should give up, but cricket was my escape, my only hope. I told myself, “If I keep playing, maybe one day things will change.” And they did.
You lost your parents and were struggling financially with a pregnant wife. How did you go through those times, and what lessons did you learn?
That phase of my life still haunts me. Losing my parents was heartbreaking, but the moment that changed me forever was when I couldn’t afford medicine for my pregnant wife. We lost the baby, and I felt like I had failed as a husband, as a person. I was desperate—so desperate that, for the first and last time in my life, I stole trucks spare parts from a garage to pay the hospital bill.
That guilt stayed with me, and it became a turning point. That pain drove me. I promised myself I would never be in a position where I couldn’t take care of my family. I learned that life is ruthless, but you can either break or fight back. I chose to fight. I stayed away from bad habits, focused on my fitness, and held on to my dream.
How did you get into tennis ball cricket, and what inspired you to pursue it seriously?
I picked up a bat back in 2002-03, just like any other kid playing in the streets, but I never thought cricket would become my life. After losing my parents in 2003, I had no choice but to fend for myself. Tennis ball cricket was something I could afford—no expensive gear, just raw talent and determination. The turning point came in 2004 when I scored 75 runs against a strong team. The recognition I got from senior players that day made me believe that maybe, just maybe, cricket could be my way forward.
Who were your role models growing up, and how did they influence your playing style?
MS Dhoni, without a doubt. His calmness under pressure, leadership, and of course, his helicopter shot—I tried to copy all of it. I’ve always admired how he played without fear, and that’s something I try to bring into my game. And then there’s the legend, Sachin Tendulkar. When someone like him notices your game, it’s surreal. It made me believe I was on the right path.
How does it feel to be a part of the ISPL and play at such a competitive level?
It still feels unreal sometimes. ISPL changed my life. Before this, I was playing for survival—now, I’m playing for something bigger. Being picked by Falcon Risers Hyderabad last year was a huge moment for me, and when they retained me for the second edition, it showed how much they believed in me.
This franchise has been incredible—the management truly values its players. They were the first to start their camp almost a month before the tournament, making sure we built team bonding and camaraderie. It’s more than just a team; it feels like family. I want to give everything I have to help Falcon Risers win this season. The competition is intense, but that’s what makes it exciting. Every time I step on the field, I remind myself how far I’ve come, and that pushes me to give my best.
What was your most memorable moment from ISPL so far?
Meeting Sachin Tendulkar Sir in ISPL Season 1 was a dream come true. He recognized my journey and assured me that I had earned the title ‘God of Tennis Cricket’ through hard work. His words, along with the public’s love, gave me immense motivation.
Something that surprises people about Krishna Satpute off the field?
People expect me to be aggressive and intense all the time, but I’m actually quite the opposite off the field. I’m quiet, I think a lot about life, and I love helping others. Many are surprised when I tell them I want to start cricket academies, not just for leather ball cricket but also for tennis ball players. I know how hard it is to make it, and if I can help even one young player avoid the struggles I went through, that would mean a lot.
If you weren’t a cricketer, what would you have pursued as a career?
Honestly, I don’t know—cricket is all I’ve ever known. But if I weren’t a cricketer, I would have likely followed my family’s legacy and worked in the railway, just like my father, who retired in 1993.
