A Debut to Remember
On Sunday, March 23, 2025, Mumbai Indians’ (MI) scouting team celebrated another success story in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Vignesh Puthur, an unknown name in senior cricket, made his mark in his very first match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The 24-year-old left-arm Chinaman bowler, yet to play senior-level cricket for Kerala, made a sensational debut, picking up three wickets and rattling CSK’s middle order.
Despite MI’s eventual defeat, Puthur’s remarkable performance – dismissing Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Deepak Hooda – gave the team a fighting chance. His unexpected brilliance is yet another example of MI’s stellar scouting prowess, which has previously unearthed stars like Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Tilak Varma.
From Humble Beginnings to IPL Centrestage
Vignesh’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. The son of an auto driver from Kerala, he grew up playing cricket on the streets before making it to local clubs. Currently pursuing an MA in Literature, Puthur’s academic commitments didn’t deter him from chasing his cricketing dreams.
With no prior senior-level experience, Puthur’s selection in the MI squad surprised many. However, MI’s scouting team, known for its ability to spot raw talent, recognized his potential. His performances in domestic tournaments and local leagues earned him a place in the IPL 2025 squad, marking the beginning of a fairytale rise.
Match Highlights: Puthur Shines Despite MI’s Defeat
The match, played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, saw Mumbai Indians setting a modest target of 156 runs. CSK, with its power-packed batting lineup, looked set to chase the target comfortably.
However, Vignesh Puthur had other plans. Introduced in the eighth over, he displayed immense composure and skill. His variations and turn troubled the CSK batters, shifting the momentum temporarily in MI’s favor.
Key Wickets Taken by Puthur:
Ruturaj Gaikwad: The dangerous opener fell to Puthur’s deceptive flight, giving MI their first breakthrough.
Shivam Dube: The in-form middle-order batter was deceived by Puthur’s googly, providing MI with a crucial wicket.
Deepak Hooda: Another key scalp, Hooda’s dismissal brought MI back into the contest, albeit briefly.
Although MI ultimately lost the match, Puthur’s spell (3/24 in four overs) stood out, earning him praise from fans, commentators, and cricketing experts alike.
Mumbai Indians’ Scouting Prowess: Another Gem Unearthed
Mumbai Indians have built a reputation for identifying and nurturing young talent. From bringing Jasprit Bumrah into the limelight in 2013 to backing Suryakumar Yadav’s transformation into a T20 powerhouse, MI’s scouting team has an eye for future stars.
Vignesh Puthur appears to be their latest find. His impressive debut has already sparked comparisons to legendary wrist-spinners like Brad Hogg and Kuldeep Yadav. The ability to bowl Chinaman deliveries with consistency and subtle variations makes him a rare and valuable asset in the T20 format.
What’s Next for Vignesh Puthur?
Following his dream debut, cricket fans and experts are eager to see more of Puthur in the upcoming IPL matches. With Mumbai Indians aiming to bounce back after their opening loss, Puthur’s role will be crucial in tightening their bowling attack.
His inspiring journey from humble beginnings to the IPL centrestage is a beacon of hope for aspiring cricketers. With the right guidance and consistent performances, Puthur has the potential to become a mainstay in MI’s bowling lineup and even knock on the doors of the national team in the future.
A Star in the Making
Vignesh Puthur’s IPL debut is a testament to the Mumbai Indians’ impeccable talent scouting and the power of raw, unpolished skill. From Kerala’s backwaters to the IPL’s spotlight, Puthur’s remarkable rise showcases the limitless possibilities of dedication and determination.
As the IPL 2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on Puthur, the Chinaman spinner who has already made a mark in his very first game. If his debut performance is any indication, Indian cricket may have discovered another gem.
Saathee Global
