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[Watch] When MI Debutant's Nuwan Thushara Rattled Buttler With A Dream Ball

Thushara plays his first game for MI vs RR (X)Thushara plays his first game for MI vs RR (X)

Finally, Mumbai Indians (MI) have found a way to incorporate Nuwan Thushara into their playing eleven. Thushara replaced Romario Shepherd in Mumbai's lineup against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Monday, marking the Sri Lankan's debut IPL game. 

The Sri Lankan bowler, known for his sling action similar to that of Lasitha Malinga and Matheesha Pathirana, is expected to be a striking force for Mumbai. However, he had been benched for seven games for reasons undisclosed by the MI management.


Watch: Thushara taking Buttler's stumps

Thushara plays for Mumbai Indians' SA20 league team, MI Cape Town. Earlier this year, in his debut match, Nuwan Thushara bowled Jos Buttler with a fantastic, unplayable delivery. 

It was the eighteenth over, Jos Buttler, representing Paarl Royals, was at the crease with the scoreboard reading 140-1. 

Just when Paarl Royals were expected to finish the game in style, Thushara delivered a full-length ball that dismissed Jos Buttler.


Why Thushara could be Mumbai's X factor bowler

MI has been struggling in bowling since the start of this season. Apart from Jasprit Bumrah and Gerald Coetzee, none of the bowlers have been in form. Piyush Chawla, who was in good  form last year, is struggling this year, and Akash Madhwal has also faced difficulties. 

This is where Thushara brings fresh energy to the MI team. With his X-factor slingy action, Thushara will be a good partner for Bumrah. 

Playing against RR, Thushara will once again face Jos Buttler, giving him the chance to replicate his performance in South Africa earlier.