The Mumbai Indians have announced the inclusion of uncapped South African fast bowler Kwena Maphaka as a replacement for the injured Sri Lankan paceman Dilshan Madushanka for the forthcoming IPL season.
Madushanka, a 23-year-old Sri Lankan pacer, sustained a hamstring injury during the recent ODI series against Bangladesh, where the visitors suffered a 1-2 defeat.
Mumbai Indians had acquired Madushanka during the IPL Auction for the upcoming season for a price of Rs 4.6 crore. He had showcased his talent during the previous year's ODI World Cup, securing 21 wickets in nine matches.
In contrast, Kwena Maphaka, a 17-year-old rising star, gained prominence after being honored as the Player of the Tournament in the U19 World Cup hosted in South Africa this year. He managed to bag 21 wickets at an impressive average of 9.71.
High praise has been bestowed upon Maphaka by Proteas legend Allan Donald. Despite not getting a chance to play for Paarl Royals in SA20 2023-24, Maphaka has demonstrated his prowess in T20 cricket, claiming 13 wickets in nine games at an economy rate of 6.71, which includes a notable four-wicket haul.
The Mumbai Indians expressed their confidence in Maphaka, highlighting his ability to generate significant pace and deliver a menacing bouncer that puts pressure on batsmen. Having debuted for the South Africa U19 team at the tender age of 15 and participating in two U19 World Cups, Maphaka is touted as a promising talent.
His bowling skills, particularly his death bowling and yorkers, impressed during the U19 World Cup. Maphaka will have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside seasoned bowlers like Lasith Malinga, the team's bowling coach, and Jasprit Bumrah.
Mumbai Indians, led by new skipper Hardik Pandya, will kick off their IPL 2024 campaign against last season's runner-up, Gujarat Titans, in Ahmedabad on March 24th.
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