Akshat Raghuwanshi makes IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants against Mumbai Indians

Key facts

• Akshat Raghuwanshi made his IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants against Mumbai Indians on May 4 at Wankhede Stadium.
• He was purchased for ₹2.2 crore at the 2025 auction.
• Raghuwanshi scored 239 runs in four Madhya Pradesh League matches at a strike rate of 177.04.
• He scored a century on his Ranji Trophy debut against Meghalaya in the 2021–22 season.
• His T20 record includes 63 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 131.25.
• Raghuwanshi idolises Rohit Sharma, who captained Mumbai Indians in the match.
• LSG also brought in Josh Inglis, who scored 13 off five balls before being dismissed.

Debut at Wankhede

Akshat Raghuwanshi received his maiden Indian Premier League cap from Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant ahead of the match against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on May 4. The 22-year-old right-handed batter from Madhya Pradesh walked out to face his idol, Rohit Sharma, who was playing for Mumbai Indians after returning to the side. Pant announced three changes to the LSG lineup at the toss, confirming Raghuwanshi's debut alongside Australian wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis.

A long-awaited opportunity

Raghuwanshi had been one of the most sought-after uncapped players at the 2025 auction, where LSG secured his services for ₹2.2 crore. Despite his domestic success, an IPL contract had eluded him until now. His inclusion comes at a critical juncture for LSG, who are languishing at the bottom of the league table with batting struggles. Pant said at the toss, “We have three changes. Josh Inglis comes in, Mukul goes out, and Raghuwanshi is making his debut. Bowling we will decide later.”

Domestic exploits and signature shot

Raghuwanshi’s cricketing journey began at age three under his father’s guidance in Gwalior. He made a mark in age-group cricket before a stunning Ranji Trophy debut in the 2021–22 season, scoring a century against Meghalaya and a half-century in his second match. He captained Madhya Pradesh’s U-19 side in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy. His List A numbers stand at 361 runs in 17 innings at an average of 22.81, while in T20s he has 63 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 131.25. His reputation soared during the 2025 Madhya Pradesh League, where he smashed 239 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 177.04, including a 115 off 56 balls. His signature “no-look” upper cut has become his trademark.

LSG’s batting woes and Inglis cameo

LSG, struggling with batting consistency, also handed a debut to Josh Inglis, who had rejoined the squad after personal commitments. Inglis’s innings was brief: he scored 13 off five deliveries before holing out to long-on off the bowling of AM Ghazanfar. The team’s batting concerns have been a major factor in their poor league standing, making Raghuwanshi’s aggressive style a potential remedy.

A fitting stage against his idol

In a twist of fate, Raghuwanshi’s IPL debut came against Mumbai Indians, captained by his idol Rohit Sharma. The youngster, who has modelled his game after Sharma, now shares the same field as the veteran. The Wankhede crowd witnessed the arrival of a player who has drawn attention for his fearless approach and ability to accelerate in the middle overs.

What lies ahead for Raghuwanshi

Raghuwanshi’s performance in his debut match will be closely watched, as LSG look to revive their campaign. His domestic record suggests he can anchor an innings or accelerate as needed. The IPL platform offers him a chance to cement his place in the squad and potentially attract national selectors’ attention. For now, the young batter has taken the first step on a bigger stage.

The bottom line

• Akshat Raghuwanshi made his IPL debut for LSG against MI on May 4, 2026.
• He was bought for ₹2.2 crore and is known for his aggressive batting and signature 'no-look' upper cut.
• His domestic highlights include a Ranji Trophy century on debut and 239 runs in four MPL matches at a strike rate of 177.04.
• LSG are at the bottom of the table and hope Raghuwanshi can address their batting concerns.
• Raghuwanshi idolises Rohit Sharma, against whom he made his debut.