The IPL 2025 clash between Mumbai Indians and Kolkata knight Riders is underway at the Wankhede stadium. The match started on a dramatic start with KKR struggling against the Mumbai Bowling attack. Coming for the attack, Mumbai Introduced a fresh face Ashwani Kumar in their playing XI for the much anticipated clash.
Ashwani Kumar, the young pacer, made his IPL Debut with Mumbai Indians in this match and made his grand debut, grabbing the spotlight with his impressive bowling. But who is Ashwani Kumar? Let’s take a closer look at MI’s latest debutant and how he grabbed the big stage.
Who is Ashwani Kumar?
Ashwani Kumar, Mumbai Indians left arm pacer made his debut against Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday at the Wankhede Stadium. Coming in front, Ashwani dismissed fiery Ajinkya Rahane in his first over. He made his debut in the third over of the KKR innings, bowling to purple army skipper Ajinkya, Ashwani made an impact and sent him back to pavilion on his first ball.
The feeling of your first #TATAIPL wicket 😊
Ashwani Kumar with a dream start as he picks up Ajinkya Rahane ✨
#MI could not have asked for a better start 👌#KKR 41/4 after 6 overs.Updates ▶ https://t.co/iEwchzEpDk#MIvKKR pic.twitter.com/sPOTN5qpW2
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2025
Ashwani Kumar hails from Mohali, Punjab, and plays as a medium-fast bowler. Before breaking big in the Indians, he had played in domestic cricket and his consistent performances have earned him a spot in the Mumbai Indians Squad. He made his T20 debut for Punjab in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy during the 2022 season. Kumar also represented Punjab in both First-Class (two matches) and List A (four matches) cricket. It was the Sher-e-Punjab T20 tournament, where Ashwani grabbed the attention of many. Playing for BLV Blasters, he claimed his best figures of 4/36.
Before debuting big with MI, the 23-year-old player featured in the Punjab Kings squad last year but couldn’t make it into the playing XI of the Kings. Known for his ability to generate pace and movement, Ashwani made his IPL debut against Kolkata Knight Riders, marking a significant milestone in his career. Ashwani’s breakthrough came courtesy of a stunning catch by Tilak Verma, who juggled the ball before finally securing a firm grip, sending Rahane back to the pavilion without contributing much to the score.
