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.
After Mi captain Hardik Pandya sent to bat, KKR fought quickly losing wickets at regular intervals. At the end of the powerplay, they were 41/4, Ashwani’s initial strike established the tone for MI’s dominance.
Hiling from Mohali, Punjab, Ashwani has represented Punjab in first class, list A and T20 cricket. His beginning of his IPL was eagerly anticipated, and he did not disappoint.
After winning the toss, Hardik Pandya said, “We are going to bowl first. Looks like a good track, and the initial swing can help. We have a debut – Ashwani Kumar.”
With one wicket with his first ball, Ashwani Kumar has announced himself on the IPL stage in style.
Get the latest IPL 2025 update on Times of India, including match schedule, team squad, points table and IPL Live Score for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBK and RR. Do not remember the list of players in the race for IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple Cap.
