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"Ashwani Kumar A Great Talent…" Jayawardene Says MI Committed To Grooming Youngsters

Aakash Saini

Ashwani Kumar in action for Mumbai Indians [Source: IPLT20.COM]Ashwani Kumar in action for Mumbai Indians [Source: IPLT20.COM]

Ashwani Kumar sent down an impressive and economical spell against Gujarat Titans in a high-scoring Eliminator clash for Mumbai Indians in New Chandigarh. The speedster conceded just 28 runs in his three-and-a-half overs, and picked up the wicket of Shahrukh Khan as Mumbai Indians sealed the game by 20 runs.

With nine wickets in six games this IPL 2025 season, Kumar has certainly impressed Mumbai Indians head coach and legendary Sri Lankan batter Mahela Jayawardene.

MI coach says “more to come” from Ashwani Kumar

While speaking during the post-match press conference, Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene heaped a significant praise on young Ashwani Kumar, stating that the 23-year-old speedster has so far handled every challenge thrown at him. As quoted by India Today, He said:

“Ashwani is a great talent. This season, he's handled every challenge we've thrown at him really well. He hasn’t played much state cricket, but the skill was obvious when we first saw him. We’ve given him simple plans to avoid confusion, and he’s had strong support from players like Boom (Bumrah), Deepak, and Hardik. Execution under pressure is what matters, and he's done that.”

Mahela Jayawardene also added that the Mumbai Indians franchise is committed to grooming Ashwani Kumar, and they have been using him “tactically on the basis” of opposition.

“Even in the GT game when he came on as a concussion sub, and in the KKR game, he bowled brilliantly. We use him tactically based on opposition, and he continues to learn. This is just the beginning — there’s much more to come from Ashwini, and we’re committed to grooming him the right way.”

Ashwani Kumar’s tight spell in the Eliminator took the wheels out of Gujarat Titans’ rampaging run-chase, as they eventually fell 20 runs short of Mumbai Indians.

The Hardik Pandya-led side will now face Punjab Kings in the second qualifier on June 1 in Ahmedabad.