“Who was this late entrant?” asked many as Raghu Sharma, a 33-year-old leg-spinner, made his IPL debut for the Mumbai Indians against the Chennai Super Kings on May 2, 2026.
Sharma’s cricket journey began unusually late at 18, inspired by India’s 2011 World Cup triumph. His persistence paid off when MI captain Hardik Pandya handed him his maiden IPL cap.
Before joining the IPL, Sharma represented Punjab and Puducherry in domestic cricket. He made his first-class debut during the 2017–18 Ranji Trophy season and has since taken an impressive total of 57 wickets across just 12 matches.
Key statistics:
- 57 wickets taken in first-class matches
- 5 five-wicket hauls and 3 ten-wicket hauls
- 14 wickets in the 2024–25 Vijay Hazare Trophy
- 4 wickets in T20 matches at an economy rate of eight
Sharma’s breakthrough moment came in 2025 when Mumbai Indians signed him as a mid-season replacement for an injured player. He had previously contributed to the team as a net bowler.
The Mumbai Indians faced challenges during the IPL 2026 season, struggling at ninth place with only four points and a net run rate of -0.784 before facing CSK. Earlier in the tournament, they suffered a significant defeat to CSK by 103 runs.
Sharma’s rise has been built on persistence. His story exemplifies how talent can emerge later in life, inspiring others to pursue their dreams regardless of age. The upcoming matches will reveal how he can contribute to MI’s campaign moving forward.
