In a stunning show of power-hitting prowess, Jharkhand’s uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman, Kumar Kushagra, emerged as a star attraction on the IPL 2024 public sale held in Dubai. Delhi Capitals, captivated by his potential, engaged in a fierce bidding conflict that culminated in them securing the younger expertise for a whopping Rs 7.20 crore. At simply 19 years outdated, Kumar Kushagra has already drawn comparisons to the legendary MS Dhoni, identified for his extraordinary contributions to Indian cricket. The right-handed batter’s adeptness at power-hitting and sound method caught the attention of scouts, resulting in an intense bidding tussle amongst franchises.
2. Kumar Kushagra
Deodhar Trophy 2023
68(58) batting at 7 (last)
57(47) batting at 7
2(11)
98(87) batting at 7
6*(5)One good inning of 67*(36) to chase down 356 runs.
30*(20), 33(20), 27(15) three good innings in SMAT pic.twitter.com/vYEKoRGsBt
— Varun Giri (@Varungiri0) December 17, 2023
Journey to Prominence
Kumar Kushagra’s journey to stardom started with a standout efficiency within the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 event earlier this yr, the place he amassed 111 runs in six matches for Jharkhand. His constant performances throughout codecs, together with the Vijay Hazare Trophy, additional solidified his fame as a promising younger expertise.
Impressive Record
In 11 T20 matches, Kumar Kushagra boasts a commendable report, scoring 140 runs at a putting price of 117.64. His capability to adapt his innings primarily based on match situations showcases not solely his cricketing ability but additionally a maturity past his years. His latest exploits within the Vijay Hazare Trophy seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24, the place he scored 275 and 164 runs respectively, spotlight his rising affect as a top-order batsman.
MS Dhoni Connection
Kumar Kushagra’s connection to MS Dhoni goes past mere comparisons. Sourav Ganguly, former India captain and a part of the Delhi Capitals administration, was so impressed with Kushagra throughout trial camps that he promised to safe the younger expertise, bidding as much as Rs 10 crore if essential.
Family and Coaching Background
Hailing from Jamshedpur, Kumar Kushagra’s cricketing journey was formed underneath the steerage of his father, Shashikant, who coached him at house. Shashikant’s dedication to his son’s cricketing growth, evident within the meticulous coaching impressed by Bob Woolmer’s “Art and Science of Cricket,” has performed a pivotal function in Kumar’s rise.
The Future with Delhi Capitals
With Sourav Ganguly’s unwavering confidence and a considerable bid from Delhi Capitals, Kumar Kushagra finds himself in a primary place to make a big influence within the upcoming IPL season. His constant performances and the backing of cricketing stalwarts make him a participant to be careful for within the quest for cricketing glory.
