Mumbai Indians’ (MI) new sensation Ashwani Kumar has taken the IPL by storm with his dream debut against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) . The 23 year old left arm seamer delivered a match winning performance, claiming 4 wickets for just 24 runs in 3 overs , and was rightfully adjudged the Player of the Match . Following the win, MI’s wicketkeeper batter Ryan Rickelton revealed a fascinating insight into Ashwani bowling prowess his deceptive pace and ability to outfox batters.
Rickelton’s Insight: “He’s Quicker Than You Think”
Speaking in the post-match press conference, Rickelton praised Ashwani unique qualities as a bowler. He said, “He’s a lot quicker than I think people recognize at first, so I think that’s a great attribute he has.”
Here’s what makes Ashwani stand out:
Deceptive Pace:
Despite not looking overly fast, Ashwani deliveries “rush you a little bit lower,” as Rickelton explained. This element of surprise leaves betters struggling to adjust their timing.
Swing and Variations:
With the new ball, Ashwani showcased his ability to swing it both ways, making him a dangerous prospect for top order batters.
Even with the older ball, he displayed a “second plan,” which Rickelton described as “really impressive.”
Rickelton added, “He’s a great addition to the group, and the Wankhede pitch can really suit his style. I’m looking forward to seeing if he gets an opportunity with the new ball to showcase his full set of skills.”
Ashwani Kumar’s IPL Debut Performance
| Player | Overs Bowled | Wickets Taken | Economy Rate | Best Figures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ashwani Kumar | 3 | 4 | 8.00 | 4/24 |
✅ Expert Take: Ashwani ability to combine pace, swing, and variations makes him a valuable asset for Mumbai Indians.
Rickelton’s Maiden IPL Half-Century Guides MI Home
While Ashwani stole the spotlight with the ball, Ryan Rickelton played a crucial role with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 62 off 41 balls . His innings, laced with 4 fours and 5 sixes , helped MI chase down the target comfortably.
Key Partnerships: Rickelton stitched crucial stands with captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Will Jacks , ensuring a smooth victory.
Internal Pressure: Despite no external pressure from the management, Rickelton admitted feeling the weight of opening the batting for MI alongside Rohit Sharma. He said, “It’s more internal pressure. There’s always going to be pressure internally and externally when you’re playing for Mumbai Indians. I just wanted to contribute to the team.”
What’s Next for Mumbai Indians?
With their first win of the season under their belt, MI have climbed to the sixth spot on the points table. They will next face the Lucknow Supergiants (LSG) on April 4 , and fans are eager to see if Ashwani Kumar can replicate his magic with the new ball.
Final Thoughts
Ashwani Kumar’s sensational debut has not only bolstered Mumbai Indians’ squad but also highlighted his potential as a future star in the IPL. As Ryan Rickelton aptly put it, Ashwani’s deceptive pace and clever variations make him a formidable opponent for any batter.
Do you think Ashwani Kumar will continue to shine in the upcoming matches? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Stay tuned for more updates and thrilling moments from IPL 2025.