IPL: Kwena Has a Chance to Showcase Skills on the ‘Biggest Tournament on the Planet’, says Allan Donald

New Delhi, March 21 (IANS) – South Africa fast bowler Kwena Maphaka has joined Mumbai Indians as a replacement for injured Dilshan Madushanka. Maphaka, 17, caught attention in the 2024 U-19 World Cup, being named Player of the Tournament. He will now have a chance to shine in the IPL.

Maphaka, who plays for the Lions in South Africa’s domestic circuit, was set to join MI after a few matches but due to Madushanka’s injury, he will now spend the entire IPL with the franchise. Allan Donald, Lions’ bowling coach, expressed his confidence in Maphaka’s abilities to perform well in the tournament.

Being in his final year of schooling, Maphaka is currently studying at St Stithians College in Johannesburg, where he is following the footsteps of South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada. Donald praised Maphaka’s talent and self-assurance in crucial moments, mentioning his ability to deliver under pressure situations.

Head coach Russell Domingo also commended Maphaka’s opportunity to play with and against some of the best players in the world. He highlighted Maphaka’s journey through South Africa’s development teams and schooling system, praising his contributions to the Lions’ success.

Mumbai Indians will start their IPL 2024 campaign with their new captain Hardik Pandya against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With Maphaka now part of their squad, the young bowler will have a chance to prove his mettle in one of the biggest T20 tournaments in the world.