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Jayawardene Lauds Raghu's Inspiring IPL Journey From Net Bowler to Maiden Wicket

Mumbai Indians coach Mahela Jayawardene praised Raghu Sharma after he took his maiden IPL wicket against Lucknow Super Giants. Jayawardene highlighted Raghu's journey from being a net bowler last season to making an impact on the big stage. Raghu's breakthrough came during MI's record chase of 229 runs at Wankhede Stadium. After his wicket, Raghu celebrated with a heartfelt note thanking his mentor and the team for the opportunity.

Key Points: Raghu's IPL Dream: Net Bowler to Maiden Wicket

  • Raghu Sharma took his maiden IPL wicket for Mumbai Indians
  • He was a net bowler last season and worked tirelessly
  • Jayawardene praised his hard work and determination
  • Raghu's note celebrated 15 years of struggle and gratitude
2 min read

'A strong mind and big heart': Jayawardene lauds Raghu's journey from net bowler to maiden IPL wicket

Mahela Jayawardene praises Raghu Sharma for his journey from net bowler to taking his first IPL wicket, highlighting hard work and a strong mind.

"A strong mind and a big heart, well done. - Mahela Jayawardene"

Mumbai, May 5

Mumbai Indians coach Mahela Jayawardene lavished praise on 33-year-old spinner Raghu Sharma after he picked up his maiden wicket in the Indian Premier League, highlighting the bowler's journey from being a net bowler last season to making a mark on the big stage.

Raghu's breakthrough came during the Mumbai Indians' six-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Wankhede Stadium, where the hosts chased down a daunting 229-run target in 18.4 overs. The victory was powered by a 143-run opening stand between Rohit Sharma (84) and Ryan Rickelton (83), helping MI register their highest-ever successful chase at the venue.

Jayawardene revealed that Raghu's rise has been built on relentless hard work and determination, recalling how the youngster pushed himself even during a training stint in Sri Lanka.

"You guys remember he was a net bowler last year, worked really hard, got into the squad, never stopped working hard. He came to Sri Lanka; some people don't know he came for a 10-day camp. He wasn't bowling well, so he worked even harder in Colombo in that hot sun," Jayawardene said in a video released by the Mumbai Indians on X.

In a match dominated by big scores with LSG posting 228/5 after Nicholas Pooran's explosive 63 off 21 balls, Raghu made his moment count by claiming his maiden IPL wicket of Akshat Raghuvanshi, providing a key breakthrough in the middle overs. Raghu delivered a composed spell against the Super Giants, returning figures of 4-0-36-1.

The former Sri Lanka captain added that Raghu had made a promise to return stronger this season, something he has now begun to deliver on.

"And he promised one thing, he said, 'I'll be ready for this year'. So a lot of hard work, well deserved to be here, a strong mind and a big heart, well done," he added.

After taking his first wicket, Raghu pulled out a chit from his pocket and celebrated by holding it. "A very painful 15 years. By the divine mercy of Gurudev ended today. Thanks, Mumbai Indians (Blue and Gold), for giving me this opportunity. Ever grateful," Raghu's note read.

Raghu came in as a replacement for Vignesh Puthur in IPL 2025, but didn't get a chance to play a game in that season. He made his debut on Saturday against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) but returned wicketless.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

J
James A
Incredible perseverance. The note from his pocket about "painful 15 years" really hit hard. Fans love these raw, emotional moments. Hope he gets more chances.
V
Vikram M
Mahela Jayawardene has always been a great mentor. The way he remembers Raghu's commitment to the 10-day camp in Sri Lanka—that's the kind of leadership we need. But honestly, MI's bowling needs to step up. Raghu did well, but 36 runs in 4 overs isn't great in T20s. Hope he learns and comes back stronger next match!
S
Sarah B
What a heartwarming story! The chit from his pocket and the mention of "Gurudev" shows his deep faith. Cricket in India is not just a sport; it's a journey of dreams and devotion. Loved how he made that breakthrough against LSG despite the big total.
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Priya S
Raghu's story is inspiring but also raises a question—why is it so hard for domestic spinners to break through? He's 33 and only now getting a proper chance. IPL teams need to back bowlers like him earlier. Still, excellent to see him finally getting the recognition he deserves. Jai Ho MI! 🙌

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