Mumbai (Maharashtra), India, April 1 (ANI): Ashwani Kumar produced an impressive IPL debut performance Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai Indians ' first match at our new venue ' IPL 2025 Finishing with impressive stats of 4/24, which stands as the best performance for an Indian debutant in the IPL.
He also made history as the first Indian bowler in the past ten years to claim a wicket with his opening delivery in the IPL.
Bowling coach Paras Mhambrey Was impressed with Ashwani's calmness. “It’s remarkable to watch someone play their first match under pressure and still remain composed; I’m genuinely pleased for them,” Mhambrey stated during an interview with iplt20.com. He further explained, “Ashwani capitalized on his skills and maintained focus, which yielded positive outcomes. The key isn’t just performing well but also relishing the opportunity to excel at what they do best.”
One of the three alterations made was Ashwani. MI prepared for the game, and the bowling coach clarified the reasoning behind his choice.
"A left-handed swing bowler with high speed, who moves the ball effectively, meets many of our requirements. We have always known that the Wankhede pitch offers more bounce than most surfaces. Given his ability to move the ball and generate significant pace, we believe this track will suit him perfectly," said Mhambrey.
Ashwani, who only ate a banana before the match, credited skipper Hardik Pandya for making him feel at ease on debut and easing his nerves.
"It’s an incredible sensation. I never imagined performing this well. Hardik bhai advised me saying, ‘Since you’re from Punjab, and Punjabis are known for being brave, go out there and intimidate the opposition and have fun with it,' " Ashwani shared regarding the distinctive guidance he got.
The debutant was overjoyed to bag Andre Russell's wicket in particular.
"Manish Pandey had hit me for a four already. Hardik bhai told me to bowl at the body for him. My favourite wicket was Andre Russell's because he is a very big player. Hardik bhai told me don't be afraid, so I just wanted to bowl to my plans," the debutant added.
Ashwani struck off his first ball to dismiss KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane but not before a fumble from Tilak Varma.
Speaking about that moment, Ashwani said, "When he fumbled, I was just hoping he catches it because when you take a wicket off your first ball, the match usually goes well."
Ashwani's success left his family and friends overjoyed too, where he said, "My whole village was very happy because Mumbai is the best team and have a lot of big players."
Ashwani only realised about his record-breaking feat after coming off the field, "I just had to bowl to my field and I didn't know I was the first Indian to do this but it feels good."
Having waited for many years for an opportunity, Ashwani said the success was a result of years of effort and dedication.
"All the seniors support us and tell us to enjoy. This is the result of a lot of hard work," the left-arm seamer concluded.
Ashwani joins the long and illustrious list of young Indian talent discovered by MI in the IPL featuring the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya and Tilak Varma to Ashwani, Vignesh Puthur, PSN Raju and Robin Minz this season. (ANI)
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