IPL 2018: Young KKR sensation Shivam Mavi hailed by experts

While Michael Vaughan went on to predict that the young cricketer will find a place in the Indian side very soon, Sanjay Manjrekar was reminded of Umesh Yadav by his bowling stint.

Published - 17 Apr 2018, 17:45 IST | Updated - 17 Apr 2018, 17:45 IST

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The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) gained the approval of fans and critics alike during the auctions of the IPL 2018. Their decision to accumulate a rich bulk of young talent from the U-19 level seems to be right on track in reaping them hefty benefits and Shivam Mavi is the biggest example of the fact. Several cricketing experts have predicted for Mavi to find a place in the Indian side before long.

As a 19 year-old bowling all-rounder, Mavi captured the attention of onlookers as he dismissed Delhi Daredevils’s skipper, Gautam Gambhir in Monday’s match at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. His accuracy and ability to clock up pace consistently has enamoured one and all. He’d previously burst into the scene with his impressive bowling performances in the 2018 U-19 World Cup, which India went on to win.

Experts lavish praise on young Shivam Mavi

In what can be only described as a dream kick-off to his IPL cricketing career, young Shivam Mavi made his debut for the KKR side on Monday (April 16) against the DD franchise. From the very outset of the proceedings, the match was bound to be an exciting encounter. Mavi struck gold in the final delivery of the third over, when his outward going delivery hit Gambhir’s bat at an awkward angle and went on to the stumps.

As the first Indian U-19 player to have played in the 2018 edition of the IPL, the prize wicket of Gautam Gambhir brought the youngster into the limelight. Not only did he bowl consistently at a speed hovering around 140 kmph all throughout his spell of 2 overs, but also kept his bowling tight. Apart from Gambhir’s wicket, Mavi had the second best economy rates (7.00) for the Kolkata team, only behind Sunil Narine.

Cricketing experts like were quick to notice Mavi and immediately lavished praise on the young man. While Michael Vaughan went on to predict that Mavi will find a place in the Indian side very soon, Sanjay Manjrekar was reminded of a young Umesh Yadav by his bowling stint. Twitterati was generous in lauding the young pacer for his hard work as KKR ended on the winning side by a considerable margin of 71 runs.

Here’s how cricketing greats praised Shivam Mavi:

Shivam Mavi is bowling 145 kph …. he is 19 yrs old …. !!!! #IPL … He will play for #India …. Very soon …
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) April 16, 2018

Shivam Mavi young Indian quick bowling 145kph ?
Good action, excellent varieties and Gambhir as his 1st @IPL wicket ?#Future #SelectDugout @StarSportsIndia
— Damien Fleming (@bowlologist) April 16, 2018

Shubham Mavi looks exceptionally gifted. Runs in easily & delivers the ball nonchalantly at 145 kph. Reminds me of young Umesh Yadav when he first arrived on the scene. Indian cricket must nurture him with care. #IPL2018
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) April 16, 2018

Like Shivam Mavi. This experience will be invaluable. Will have good days and bad playing in this higher league. But whatever, musn't compromise on pace.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) April 16, 2018

One of the reason I have a soft corner for #KKR this season is the fact that they have picked Shubman Gill, Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Shivam Mavi. All U19 guys, real talents.
Gill will play for India soon. #KKRvDD
— Wanderer ? (@DisDatNothin) April 16, 2018