How Mumbai Indians Unearthed Vignesh Puthur with an SA20 Stint and Rashid Khan Touch

Vignesh Puthur's IPL Debut Stuns CSK at Chepauk

Kerala’s Hidden Gem Makes an Impact

Hailing from Malappuram, Kerala, Vignesh Puthur‘s journey is nothing short of inspirational. Born to Sunil Kumar, an auto-rickshaw driver, and K.P. Bindhu, a homemaker, Vignesh grew up with limited resources but an abundance of dreams. Initially a medium pacer during his college cricket days, he switched to left-arm wrist spin later—a decision that shaped his career trajectory.

Vignesh caught the attention of Mumbai Indians scouts while playing for the Alleppey Ripples in the Kerala Cricket League and impressed further in age-group cricket, although he’s yet to represent Kerala at the senior level.

It wasn’t just a handful of net sessions that convinced the MI management. They laid out a detailed plan to prepare the young spinner for the pressures of the big stage. After spotting Puthur in the Kerala Cricket League, MI called him for trials ahead of the IPL mega auction. Confident in their scouting, they secured him with a ₹30 lakh bid. To further groom him, MI sent Puthur to MI Cape Town as a net bowler during the SA20. He also featured in three matches for the Reliance team at the DY Patil T20 tournament before joining MI’s pre-season camp.

Groomed in SA20, Mentored by Rashid Khan

Ahead of IPL 2025, the Mumbai Indians management ensured Vignesh honed his craft at MI Cape Town in the SA20 league. He trained alongside renowned leg-spinner Rashid Khan. Observers noted his ability to bowl in the high 70 kmph range. This was reminiscent of Kuldeep Yadav‘s early days, making him a promising mystery spinner.

Dream Debut in Chepauk

Vignesh’s IPL debut couldn’t have been more memorable. Introduced as an Impact Substitute in place of Rohit Sharma, the young spinner grabbed the limelight. He dismissed CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Deepak Hooda—all within his first three overs. His fearless approach and clever flighting deceived the CSK batters, leaving even seasoned players struggling.

The cricketing fraternity, including MS Dhoni, applauded Vignesh’s performance and acknowledged the young debutant’s brilliance. Backed by Mumbai Indians, Vignesh Puthur looks set to become one of IPL 2025’s standout performers.

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