Vignesh Puthur, a 24-year-old left-arm wrist spinner from Malappuram, Kerala, made a dream debut for the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025, taking three crucial wickets against Chennai Super Kings on March 23. Despite MI’s defeat, Puthur’s fearless bowling earned him widespread acclaim, including praise from cricket legends MS Dhoni and Harsha Bhogle.
Bought for INR 30 lakh in the mega auction, Puthur’s journey from being the son of an auto rickshaw driver to an IPL sensation has inspired many across the nation. Coach Paras Mhambrey highlighted his exceptional performance in trials as the key to his selection.
A Rising Star in Indian Cricket
Vignesh Puthur stunned spectators at Chepauk Stadium with his composed and impactful debut performance. Coming in as an Impact Substitute, he dismissed CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Deepak Hooda in his first three overs, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Known for his flighted deliveries and deceptive googlies, Puthur managed to put CSK on the back foot during the middle overs of the match. His post-match interaction with MS Dhoni further captured public attention, with Dhoni advising him to “keep doing what brought him to the IPL,” a sentiment that resonated deeply with fans and aspiring cricketers alike. Renowned commentator Harsha Bhogle praised Puthur’s performance, stating, “You have to love the IPL for providing a stage to youngsters who might have otherwise been lost,” highlighting the platform’s role in elevating young talent.
From Humble Beginnings to IPL Glory
Puthur’s journey is nothing short of remarkable and serves as an inspiring narrative for many. Born to an auto-rickshaw driver and a housewife in Malappuram, he faced numerous challenges growing up but never allowed them to deter his passion for cricket. Initially bowling medium pace, he transitioned into wrist spin under the mentorship of Coach Vijayan, who recognised his potential early on.
His talent was spotted during the Kerala Cricket League, where he consistently outperformed expectations. Further honing his skills during training stints with MI Cape Town alongside renowned spinner Rashid Khan, Puthur showcased his dedication and commitment to improving his craft. Despite being overlooked initially in the IPL auction, Mumbai Indians secured him for INR 30 lakh after recognising his potential during trials where he impressed seasoned players like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav.
His story is not just about talent; it also reflects hard work and perseverance. Currently pursuing an MA in Literature while balancing cricket commitments, Puthur exemplifies the spirit of determination that many young athletes aspire to embody.
Support from the Community
The local cricketing community has rallied behind Vignesh Puthur, celebrating his achievements as a source of pride for Malappuram and Kerala as a whole. Former cricketers and local coaches have expressed their excitement over his success, emphasising how it brings hope to young cricketers in the region who dream of making it big. Local cricket clubs have already begun organising events aimed at inspiring aspiring players by sharing Puthur’s story and encouraging them to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Moreover, community leaders have highlighted the importance of investing in grassroots cricket infrastructure to nurture future talents like Puthur. Initiatives aimed at providing better training facilities and mentorship programs are being discussed to ensure that local talents receive the support they need to thrive.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Vignesh Puthur’s story exemplifies resilience and determination, proving that talent can thrive irrespective of one’s background when given opportunities. His rise underscores the importance of nurturing grassroots cricket and investing in scouting systems that identify hidden gems across India.
As we celebrate this inspiring debut, let us ask: How can India create more pathways for young talents like Vignesh to shine on global platforms? We invite our readers to share their thoughts on how we can collectively support aspiring athletes in realising their dreams while fostering a culture of encouragement and positivity within our communities. Join the conversation!
