Mumbai Indians secured victory in their third match of IPL 2025, but it is the emerging talents of the team that are truly making headlines this season. Vignesh Puthur set the stage earlier, and on Monday, Ashwani Kumar made a significant impact with his bowling performance. Making his debut after consuming just a banana, this player from Punjab posed a formidable challenge to the KKR batsmen.
Mumbai Indians’ captain, Hardik Pandya, explained the rationale behind Ashwini’s selection for his debut. In his three-over spell, Ashwani conceded 24 runs and claimed four wickets, achieving an economy rate of 8.00. Following the match, Ashwani admitted to feeling quite nervous before stepping onto the field, but he gradually found his rhythm.
Ashwani Kumar said…
Upon receiving the Man of the Match award, Ashwani expressed, “I feel fantastic. Initially, I was under pressure, but the supportive team environment helped alleviate that.” He elaborated, “I only had bananas because of the pressure, which diminished my appetite. I had made some plans, but they encouraged me to enjoy my debut and bowl as I usually do.” Ashwini mentioned that his villagers were eagerly anticipating his debut, and he was pleased to have made them proud.
He stated, “Hardik bhai advised me to bowl short and target the body, which resulted in a wicket. Everyone in my village was watching; they had been waiting for my debut, and by God’s grace, I got the opportunity tonight and performed well.” Captain Hardik Pandya credited Ashwini’s success to the MI scouting team, saying, “First and foremost, it is all thanks to the scouts. The MI scouts have traveled extensively to identify these young talents. During a practice match, it was evident that he possesses that zip and late swing, and his bowling action is unique, especially being a left-hander. The way he dismissed Russell was crucial, and witnessing him take such a high catch off Quinton was remarkable.”