Who is Ashwani Kumar: Mumbai Indians introduced a new face in their playing XI during the 12th match of IPL 2025, and he turned out to be a game-changer. Ashwani Kumar, an unfamiliar name for many cricket fans, made a dream debut by taking 4 wickets in just 15 balls, leaving everyone stunned.

His impact was immediate as he dismissed Kolkata Knight Riders’ captain Ajinkya Rahane on the very first ball of his IPL career. With this, he became the first-ever Indian player from Mumbai Indians to achieve this rare milestone.

Ashwani didn’t stop there. He continued his fiery spell and struck twice in his second over, removing Rinku Singh and Manish Pandey, both dangerous batters. His ability to deliver under pressure helped Mumbai take control of the match. With this outstanding performance, Ashwani Kumar has now become a hot topic in the cricketing world.

How Ashwani Kumar Made It to the IPL?

Ashwani Kumar’s journey to IPL stardom began when Mumbai Indians bought him for ₹30 lakh in the 2025 mega auction. The franchise saw potential in his ability to bowl in the death overs, a skill that makes him valuable in T20 cricket. His selection wasn’t random; he had already proven his talent in domestic tournaments.

He made his T20 debut for Punjab in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2022, where he showcased his bowling prowess. In the four T20 matches he played, he took three wickets with an economy rate of 8.5. Though his economy rate may seem high, it is considered impressive for a bowler who specializes in the toughest phase of the game—the death overs. Apart from T20s, Ashwani has also played two First-Class matches and four List A games, further strengthening his experience.

Ashwani Kumar’s Early Life and Struggles

Ashwani Kumar hails from a small village called Jhanjheri in Mohali, Punjab, where he was born on August 29, 2001. Coming from a middle-class family, his journey to professional cricket wasn’t easy. From playing in local grounds to making a mark in domestic cricket, he worked relentlessly to prove his talent.

His first big break came in the Sher-e-Punjab T20 Cup, a local league where he showcased his exceptional bowling skills. In just six matches, he bagged 11 wickets, catching the attention of scouts and selectors. This performance helped him gain a spot in the Punjab domestic team, setting him on the path to IPL.

What Makes Ashwani Kumar a Special Bowler?

Ashwani Kumar’s bowling is not just about speed; it’s about smart variations and precision. He has mastered the change of pace, which confuses batsmen, making it difficult to score against him. His ability to bowl pinpoint yorkers and sharp bouncers under pressure makes him a valuable asset in the death overs.

Apart from his bowling, he is also a capable lower-order batter who can hit big shots when needed. His calm and composed nature under pressure makes him stand out as a player to watch out for in IPL 2025.

A Star in the Making for Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians have always been known for scouting and nurturing young talent, and Ashwani Kumar could be their next big find. His dream debut has already made an impact, and if he continues this form, he might become one of the breakout stars of IPL 2025.