Mumbai Indians (MI) left-arm seamer Ashwani Kumar made history on Monday, becoming the first Indian bowler to take a four-wicket haul on IPL debut against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Wankhede Stadium.
“I was feeling really good. Ashwani, 23, mentioned, “I felt some pressure initially, but the team’s supportive atmosphere helped me stay calm,” during the break after KKR was bowled out for 116.
Bought for INR 30 lakh in the mega auction, Ashwani admitted to feeling nervous before the match and even skipped lunch. “I didn’t eat anything, just had a banana. There was pressure, but I wasn’t feeling hungry. I’m happy I played well,” he shared.
The debutant made an immediate impact, striking with his first delivery to dismiss KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane at deep point. He then removed Rinku Singh and Manish Pandey before sending Andre Russell packing for just 5 in his third over. Ashwani finished with impressive figures of 4 for 24 from three overs.
While MI’s coaching staff had planned for Ashwani, captain Hardik Pandya’s key advice was to enjoy the experience. Ashwani mentioned, “Hardik bhai advised me to bowl as I normally do and just enjoy the game.”
Hardik was full of praise for Ashwani’s performance, noting his standout display in practice matches, which earned him a spot in the XI. “He had that zip, late swing, and a unique action. He was the perfect choice for the game,” Hardik also praised Ashwani for taking the crucial wicket of Russell and for his impressive leaping catch at mid-off to dismiss KKR’s Quinton de Kock.
Ashwani’s stellar performance played a pivotal role in MI’s first win of the season, as KKR was all out in just 16.2 overs.
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