Mumbai Indians’ new spin star, Vignesh Puthur, had a dream debut on Sunday, March 23. Playing in his first IPL El Clasico against Chennai, Vignesh impressed everyone by taking 3 crucial wickets. His brilliant performance earned him a special award from team owner Nita Ambani.
Coming in as an impact substitute for Rohit Sharma, the left-arm wrist spinner picked up three wickets for 32 runs in his four overs, turning the game around after CSK got off to a flying start. After the match, MS Dhoni walked over to the youngster, gave him a pat on the shoulder, and shared a warm moment of appreciation.
After the match, Nita Ambani announced Vignesh as the best bowler of the night for the team. The Kerala spinner was honored with a special pin, which Nita Ambani put on his t-shirt. Vignesh thanked the franchise for allowing him to play in the match.
– Currently doing MA in Literature
– Hasn’t played for Kerala senior team.
– Comes to IPL, makes his debut and ends the best bowler of the team at Chepauk.Nita Ambani giving special dressing room award to Vignesh Puthur 🏅 pic.twitter.com/Ott3A4mT1f
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 24, 2025
He thanked MI’s stand-in captain, Suryakumar Yadav, for supporting him and said that’s why he didn’t feel much pressure in the end. “I want to thank MI franchise for giving me the opportunity to play the match. I never thought in my life I would play with all these players. I am very happy. We could’ve won today. Thank you so much team. Also, our captain. Surya bhai was very supportive. That is why I never felt that much pressure. Thanks for supporting me,” said Vignesh.
Who is Vignesh Puthur?
Vignesh is from Malappuram, Kerala. His father, Sunil Kumar, is an autorickshaw driver, and his mother, K.P. Bindhu, is a homemaker. Even though his family faced financial difficulties, they always supported his dream of becoming a cricketer. To follow his passion for cricket, Vignesh moved from Malappuram to Thrissur.
Vignesh also served as a net bowler for MI Cape Town during the SA20.
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