The Indian Premier League, renowned for giving a stage to the brightest young talents, has given a prodigy to Indian cricket – Ashwini Kumar . At just the age of 16, the new recruit from the Mumbai Indians has already started to make a space for himself in the fast-paced format of cricket, combining raw pace, composure beyond his age and limitless potential.
Born on May 5, 2008, in Thane, Maharashtra, Ashwini’s cricketing journey began on concrete pitches and rainy grounds. At the age of just 9 years, his father, who is a local cricketing coach, spotted his ability to swing the ball at pace. Unlike other kids, Ashwini had both guidance at home and a workhorse work ethic.
By the time he turned 12, Ashwini was throwing balls close to 125 km/h and had already begun conquering inter-school and U-14 district tournaments. His long height, high arm action and ability to bowl sharp bouncers made him a ghost for young batters. Ashwini not only had speed; he also had control of the ball. Due to his attitude and discipline, his coach compared him to young Zaheer Khan.
His breakout moment came in the U-19 Challenger Trophy in 2024, where, with 15 wickets in five games, he finished as the highest wicket taker. His spell of 5/18 in the final against India U-19 B was the fantastic spell. With his performance he caught the eyes of IPL scouts.
At the 2025 IPL auction, the Mumbai Indians picked up Ashwini for INR 75 lakhs. Many called this move a gamble, but the head coach of the Mumbai Indians, Mark Boucher, said during the press conference, “You don’t get kids like Ashwini every day. He is special, not just for his bowling but for the way he thinks about the game.”
On April 12, 2025, Ashwini made his debut against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the historic Wankhede Stadium. With the crowd buzzing, he was handed the new ball, and his very first over was a maiden, and in his third over, he destroyed the stumps of Travis Head with an outstanding inswinging yorker. He finished his spell with 2/21 in four overs, earning himself the award of Player of the Match. Fans on social media started calling him “the boy with the golden arm”.
Since then, Ashwini, regularly bowling at over 140 km/h, has continued to impress and show variations at the death overs. He has taken 9 wickets in just five matches, including 3/26 against Kolkata Knight Riders, which helped Mumbai Indians secure a tight victory. His temperament – unfazed by big moments – sets him apart from the rest.
Known for grooming talents like Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah. Mumbai Indians may have found their next star in Ashwini Kumar. As IPL continues, all eyes are on the young pacer to see how he evolves. At the age of 16, Ashwini is not just a promising bowler; he is a reminder that the future of Indian cricket is in safe hands.
Written By- Balendu Singh Angad
