We knew that the first session would be key: Tushar Deshpande after Mumbai's crushing innings victory

With a mammoth lead in hand, Deshpande broke Himachal Pradesh's fourth-wicket stand by dismissing captain Pukhraj Mann, before Mohit Avasthi claimed a five-wicket haul to help Mumbai seal its second consecutive bonus-point win in the Ranji Trophy.

The wicket had little to offer the bowlers, but Mumbai found a way to finish the job.

With a mammoth lead in hand, Tushar Deshpande broke Himachal Pradesh's fourth-wicket stand by dismissing captain Pukhraj Mann, before Mohit Avasthi claimed a five-wicket haul to help Mumbai seal its second consecutive bonus-point win in the Ranji Trophy.

For Deshpande, the key was making early inroads on a surface that became increasingly difficult to bowl on as the day progressed.

"At the start of the season, our energy levels are high and our fitness is good. This is the time to push ourselves, both as a team and as individuals. More importantly, we've managed to pick up two bonus points, one in the previous game and one here. So, overall, it's been two good outings for the team, and we're looking forward to the challenges ahead," Deshpande told Sportstar.

The Mumbai pacer stressed the importance of striking early on a placid surface, where the ball offered little assistance as the day progressed.

"I knew the first session would be crucial because, later on, the ball doesn't do much here. It's a very placid batting track, so getting the wicket of Pukhraj was very important. I wanted to provide that initial breakthrough," he said.

Despite the strong start, Deshpande believes Mumbai's bowling unit can sharpen its discipline, particularly when defending smaller totals.

"When we have fewer runs to defend and then come out to bowl, that's where we can become more disciplined and tighter as a group. That's the one area I feel we can work on," he said.

Mumbai will take on Haryana in its next match at the MCA-BKC ground.