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Who is Kwena Maphaka? U-19 Sensation Who Replaced Madushanka In MI's IPL 2024 Squad

Maphaka was impressive in the U19 World Cup 2024 [X.com]Maphaka was impressive in the U19 World Cup 2024 [X.com]

Mumbai Indians have announced the inclusion of Kwena Maphaka into their squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. This decision comes on the back of Dilshan Madushanka being side-lined due to an injury, leaving a gap that Maphaka is all set to fill.

The young South African prodigy is stepping into the limelight, carrying with him a reputation for both pace and precision that goes beyond his age.


Who is Kwena Maphaka? 

At the tender age of 17, Kwena Maphaka has already made a name for himself on the international stage, showcasing his talents in the U19 World Cup 2024 earlier this year.

Not only did he turn heads with his 21 wickets—making him the leading wicket-taker of the tournament, a record for any South African in a single edition, and the second-highest in U19 World Cup history—but he also bagged the coveted Player of the Tournament award. His performance included three stunning five-wicket hauls.

Maphaka's cricketing journey is nothing short of remarkable, having debuted for South Africa's U19 team at the age of 15. 

His skills were on full display during the U19 World Cup 2022, where he participated in three matches and picked up seven wickets at an impressive average of 18.29 and an economy rate of 5.56 runs per over.

The lanky speedster's ability to generate speeds of up to 140kph, along with a menacing bouncer and lethal yorkers, has made him a formidable force in death bowling.

Beyond his cricketing exploits, Maphaka is a true all-rounder, excelling in tennis and hockey during his final year of high school. 

His athletic brilliance is matched by his academic commitment, as he effortlessly balances sports and studies. Hailing from St. Stithians, the same alma mater as Kagiso Rabada, Maphaka is set to follow in the footsteps of cricketing greats.

Joining the ranks of Mumbai Indians, Maphaka is set to benefit from the mentorship of cricket legends like Lasith Malinga and Jasprit Bumrah.

This opportunity not only marks a significant milestone in his young career but also aligns with Mumbai Indians' long-standing tradition of nurturing young talent into international stars.

As Kwena Maphaka lands in Mumbai, having flown from South Africa on Tuesday, March 19, he joins the pre-season training camp, ready to replace Dilshan Madushanka and make a name for himself in the biggest T20 league in the world.