Ramakrishna Ghosh dazzles on IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings with catch and wicket

Key facts

• Ramakrishna Ghosh made his IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings on May 2, 2026, against Mumbai Indians at Chepauk.
• He took a diving catch at backward point to dismiss Will Jacks in the second over.
• Ghosh then claimed his maiden IPL wicket by dismissing Suryakumar Yadav for 21 off 12 balls.
• He scored 64 runs off 27 deliveries in the match, showcasing his all-round ability.
• Ghosh was bought by CSK in the IPL 2025 mega auction and retained for the 2026 season.
• He previously took 7/42 in a Vijay Hazare Trophy match for Maharashtra against Himachal Pradesh.

A debut to remember at Chepauk

Ramakrishna Ghosh announced his arrival in the Indian Premier League with a performance that blended athleticism, composure and skill. The 28-year-old Maharashtra all-rounder, handed his debut by Chennai Super Kings in a high-stakes clash against Mumbai Indians, delivered a moment of brilliance in the field within the second over of the match. Stationed at backward point, Ghosh sprinted and dived forward to complete a stunning catch off Anshul Kamboj's delivery, dismissing Will Jacks. The England batter had been in ominous form, having smashed a 22-ball 46 against Sunrisers Hyderabad in his previous outing, making the early breakthrough critical for CSK.

Maiden wicket follows fielding heroics

Ghosh did not stop at the catch. Later in the innings, he claimed his first IPL wicket by removing India's T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav. The right-handed batter, who had begun to accelerate with 21 runs off 12 balls including three fours and a six, attempted to hit over the off-side but found Dewald Brevis at deep point. The dismissal halted Mumbai Indians' momentum and underscored Ghosh's ability to perform under pressure. He finished his debut spell with figures that reflected his impact, though the exact bowling figures were not detailed in reports.

All-round pedigree on display with the bat

Ghosh's contribution was not limited to his bowling and fielding. Batting later in the innings, he smashed 64 runs off just 27 deliveries, demonstrating the explosive strokeplay that made him a sought-after all-rounder. His innings helped CSK post a competitive total after Mumbai Indians had been restricted to 159 for 7. The performance validated CSK's decision to retain him for the 2026 season after acquiring him at the IPL 2025 mega auction. Ghosh had previously been the 12th bowler to take seven or more wickets in a Vijay Hazare Trophy match, recording figures of 7 for 42 from 9.4 overs against Himachal Pradesh.

A key addition to CSK's lineup

Ghosh's debut came at a crucial juncture in the tournament, with playoff spots still undecided. The match against Mumbai Indians, a traditional powerhouse, carried significant weight. By delivering with both bat and ball, Ghosh provided CSK with a versatile option that could prove decisive in the run-in to the playoffs. His selection ahead of more experienced players signaled the franchise's faith in his abilities. The 28-year-old's journey from domestic cricket to the IPL stage reflects the depth of talent in Maharashtra cricket.

Mumbai Indians' batting woes continue

Mumbai Indians' batting lineup faltered once again, managing only 159 for 7 after winning the toss and electing to bat first at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium. The early loss of Jacks and the dismissal of Suryakumar Yadav left the middle order exposed, and they struggled to build partnerships. The total proved insufficient as CSK chased it down, though the exact result was not specified in the reports. The defeat compounded Mumbai Indians' inconsistent season, raising questions about their batting depth.

What lies ahead for the debutant

Ghosh's impressive start has set high expectations for his future in the tournament. With CSK eyeing a playoff berth, his all-round abilities could be a key asset in the remaining matches. The franchise will hope he can replicate his debut performance consistently. For now, the 28-year-old has made a statement that he belongs on the biggest stage. His journey from a seven-wicket haul in domestic cricket to a match-defining IPL debut is a testament to his hard work and talent.

The bottom line

• Ramakrishna Ghosh made a memorable IPL debut for CSK with a diving catch and a wicket.
• He scored 64 off 27 balls, showing his all-round capability.
• Ghosh was bought at the 2025 mega auction and retained for 2026.
• His domestic pedigree includes a 7/42 in Vijay Hazare Trophy.
• Mumbai Indians' batting struggles continued as they posted 159/7.