Mumbai Indians had a telling blow handed out to them as Dilshan Madushanka was ruled out of IPL 2024 but then as they say, the five-time champions have always had an ace up their sleeve and they played it out just in the nick of time. Kwena Maphaka, the rising South African sensation who finished as the leading wicket taker in the U19 World Cup 2024 was roped in as a replacement.
Why Kwena Maphaka?
So who is Maphaka? Well, he is an absolute monster in the making and one of those fiery ones, that are usually feared by the batters. Why exactly? It is simple. He generates pace of 140 clicks already and does that regularly without breaking a sweat. He brings in the heat, brings in the sensation and most importantly he likes to go hard on the deck. With two bouncers on, he can be a nightmare for the batters.
What are his academics?
Maphaka attended the same school as that of Kagiso Rabada and that is St. Stithians in Johannesburg. He was in India to spend his summer holidays but now that plan has changed. He will be a part of the prized Mumbai Indians that has the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Lasith Malinga and this new residence also comes in with a ton of money.
What are his credentials?
He spearheaded the South African bowling unit in the recently concluded 2024 U19 World Cup where he steered South Africa to the semis with his staggering haul of 21 wickets from six matches. More importantly he infuses his brutal intimidating speed with a lethal brand of swing that leaves batters dazed and confused.
Latest stats?
As per ESPNCricinfo, he has claimed 13 wickets from 9 T20Is at an economy rate of 6.71 and a strike rate of 14.7. In the recently concluded U19 World Cup, he bowled at an economy rate of 3.81 and an average of 9.71. His best bowling figures in the shortest format of the game is 4/18.
