Mumbai Indians (MI) made a significant acquisition in the IPL auctions, securing the services of Sri Lankan pacer Nuwan Thushara for a substantial sum of 4.80 crores. Currently representing MI Cape Town in the SA20 league, Thushara demonstrated his prowess during a match against Pretoria Capitals, contributing to his team’s imposing total of 248/4.
MI Cape Town’s innings was highlighted by stellar performances from Ryan Rickelton, who scored a blistering 90 off 45 deliveries, and Dewald Brevis, who notched up a quickfire 66 off 32 balls. Rassie van der Dussen and skipper Kieron Pollard also played impactful cameos, propelling the team to a formidable total.
In response, Pretoria Capitals found themselves reeling at 42 for six, with Nuwan Thushara emerging as the tormentor-in-chief. Thushara’s scalps included Rilee Rossouw, Colin Ackerman, and Shane Dadswell, the latter falling victim to a sensational yorker reminiscent of the legendary Lasith Malinga’s deliveries.
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Nuwan Thushara’s side-arm bowling action, akin to Malinga’s, allows him to generate extra pace and swing the ball effectively. Mumbai Indians boast a well-rounded squad for the upcoming IPL 2024, offering depth in both bowling and batting departments. With Hardik Pandya taking over the captaincy reins, Rohit Sharma can approach his batting duties with freedom, unburdened by the responsibilities of leadership.ย
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While some Rohit Sharma fans expressed discontent with the change in captaincy, the inclusion of Nuwan Thushara adds a promising dimension to MI’s fast-bowling arsenal.ย Thushara’s Malinga-like action positions him as a potential revelation for Mumbai Indians in the IPL, offering a valuable addition to a squad coached by none other than Lasith Malinga himself.
Alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Thushara is expected to lead Mumbai Indians’ pace attack, showcasing their ability to deliver toe-crushing yorkers on demand. Having already amassed seven wickets in just four games for MI Cape Town in the SA20 league, Thushara boasts an impressive average of 16.29.
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The team’s improved performance, currently occupying the fourth spot on the points table, indicates a positive shift from their 2023 standing. As the SA20 league progresses towards the semi-finals, MI Cape Town, under the leadership of Thushara, eyes a potential spot among the top contenders.
