New Delhi: Mumbai Indians leftist pacer Ashwani Kumar launched a dream in the IPL, which was striking with his first delivery against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Wankhede Stadium on Monday.
The 23 -year -old rejected KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane in the fourth over, becoming the fourth MI bowler to claim a wicket with his first ball in the tournament.
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Ali Murtaza, Alzari Joseph and Developed Brevis had achieved the feat for MI before Ashwini.
Wicket on first ball on IPL debut for MI
- Ali Murtaza vs RR, 2010 (Naman Ojha)
- Alzari Joseph vs SRH, 2019 (David Warner)
- Developed Brevis vs. RCB, 2022 (Virat Kohli)
- Ashwani Kumar vs KKR, 2025 (Ajinkya Rahane)*
Ashwini’s success came courtesy of a stunning catch by Tilak Verma, which was initially stuttering, but quickly recovered to complete the grip of one hand at the deep backward point.
From a city called Jhanjeeri near Chandigarh, Ashwani has represented Punjab in first class, list A and T20 cricket. He has played only four senior T20 matches before his IPL debut-with the Ranji Trophy and the Four List-e-Ashwani surprised the cricket world with four wickets.
Ashwini returned 4 figures for 24 in 3 overs, making him the first Indian to claim four wickets on IPL debut.
This was the first time in his career when Ashwani took four wickets in a single match. His previous best figures were 3/37 in list A cricket and 1/19 in T20.
The onset of Ashwani’s dream has added a new dimension to the Mumbai Indians bowling attack, and his performance will definitely make him an important player to see him in the ongoing season.
After being sent by MI captain Hardik Pandya to bat, KKR was excluded for 116 in 16.2 overs, with Ashwani’s attacks set tone for MI’s dominance.
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