Nita Ambani presents Vignesh Puthur ‘best bowler’ award; Mumbai Indians star responds with respectful gesture: Watch

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has unearthed yet another gem in Vignesh Puthur. On Sunday, in the sweltering heat of Chennai, the cricketing world saw a new uncapped star emerge as 24-year-old left-arm Mumbai Indians (MI) spinner Vignesh Puthur spun a web around the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batters on his IPL debut.

While Suryakumar Yadav's side did not emerge victorious at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, the Kerala cricketer, who has yet to play for the senior state side, would have felt like a winner by the end of the night.

Coming in as an impact substitute replacing Rohit Sharma, Vignesh Puthur impressed with the ball straightaway as he registered figures of 3/32 in his four overs, including the prized scalp of CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Although he did not get the Player of the Match award, none other than MS Dhoni and Nita Ambani appreciated Vignesh Puthur's performance. The MI youngster was clearly star-struck when MS Dhoni gave him a pat on the back for his brilliant spell, along with a few words of encouragement.

Vignesh Puthur’s evening got even better as MS Dhoni wasn’t the only big name who validated his efforts. Post-match, MI owner Nita Ambani recognised the spinner’s performance and gave him the best bowler’s award. The shy Keralite walked up and received the badge from Nita Ambani, and he touched her feet as a mark of respect.

Certainly nervous at that moment, Vignesh Puthur courageously thanked everyone and made special mention of captain Suryakumar Yadav for giving him support and opportunity. 

“I want to thank the MI franchise for giving me the opportunity to play. I never thought in my life I would play with all these players…Surya ‘Bhai’ was very supportive, that’s why I didn’t feel that much pressure,” he said.

Mumbai Indians’ got talent

Vignesh Puthur joins the long list of talent to come through Mumbai Indians’ scouting efforts. The spinner was spotted spinning a web in a local T20 league in Kerala in 2024, and the franchise roped him in as their net bowler at MI Cape Town in the SA20 league.

MI Cape Town are one of the franchise teams that Mumbai Indians own. At MI Cape Town, Vignesh Puthur had the opportunity to play with the likes of Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan and others. 

Mumbai Indians next face Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad on March 29.

Stay updated on all the action from the IPL 2025. Check the IPL 2025 Schedule, track the latest IPL 2025 Points Table, and follow the top performers with the Orange Cap and Purple Cap.