The Mumbai Indians (MI) announced on Wednesday, March 20, that Kwena Maphaka will take Dilshan Madushanka’s place in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. Now, everybody is talking about the new MI player Kwena Maphaka.
Because of an injury she suffered during an ODI against Bangladesh, Madushanka is not available. He was unable to compete in the tournament due to the injury. The Mumbai-based team made the decision to replace Madushanka with 17-year-old South African pace sensation Maphaka.
MI player Kwena Maphaka:
For the young prodigy, Maphaka’s selection in the MI squad is a dream come true. He rose to prominence at the recent U19 World Cup, winning Player of the Tournament for his remarkable 21-wicket haul—the most by a pace bowler in a single edition of the esteemed competition. His performances were crucial in leading South Africa to the tournament’s home-ground semifinals.
The world witnessed the young athlete’s speed and bounce during the U19 World Cup, which has made him well-known. In the final overs, he can deliver those pin-pointing yorkers while bowling at a pace of up to 140 kph.
Maphaka’s cricket journey has been extraordinary even at such a young age. At the age of 15, he made his debut for the South African U19 team. He has also played for South Africa A and the South Africa Emerging teams.
Maphaka will have the chance to learn from some of the greatest in the business by joining the Mumbai Indians setup, including the legendary Lasith Malinga, who coaches the team’s bowling attack, and the elite bowler Jasprit Bumrah.
In his senior year of high school, the left-hander is still in school. In addition to cricket, Maphaka has achieved success in hockey and tennis. He attends the same school as South African bowler Kagiso Rabada, St. Stithians.
MI has a talent for finding gems who develop into international and IPL stars. With some fresh and youthful players joining the team, the five-time champions will be hoping to add another trophy to their collection.
So, this was all about the new MI player Kwena Maphaka. Also read, IPL 2024: Samson reveals Jaiswal keeps injuring staff
