Tushar Deshpande does not make RR's optimal XII despite a projected WAR/M of 0.23. His bowling WAR/M of 0.19 across 1633 bowling balls and 76 matches profiles him as a competent pace option, but the squad's structure leaves no room.

His Ecae of -0.71 means he concedes 0.71 runs per over more than expected after phase adjustment. The bowling surplus of -23 runs below replacement is a significant drag. In IPL 2025, he bowled 32 overs at 10 economy with 9 wickets.

Why He Is Excluded

RR's bowling attack is already full. Sandeep Sharma (3 PP overs), Nandre Burger (2 PP + 2 death), Jofra Archer (1 PP + 3 death), Jadeja (2 mid), and Bishnoi (3 mid) account for 16 overs with 4 specialist bowlers plus 2 all-rounders (Ferreira 3, Parag 1). That fills 20 overs.

Deshpande would compete with Burger and Archer for pace bowling overs. Both overseas seamers profile better on the metrics that matter: dot rate, boundary suppression, and phase-specific economy.

What This Means for IPL 2026

Deshpande is the first-choice domestic pace backup. If Sandeep Sharma is rested or injured, Deshpande slots in as the powerplay pacer. His projected 0.23 WAR/M exceeds Kuldeep Sen (0.09) as the next cab off the rank among domestic seamers. His xImpact of 37 makes him a useful squad member, not a guaranteed starter.