Akshat Raghuwanshi smashes first-ball six on IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants

Key facts

• Akshat Raghuwanshi made his IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on May 4, 2026.
• He smashed the first ball he faced, from Will Jacks, for a six over long-on.
• Raghuwanshi was dismissed for 11 runs off seven balls, caught and bowled by Raghu Sharma.
• He was purchased for INR 2.2 crore at the 2025 mini auction.
• Raghuwanshi scored 239 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 177.04 in the 2025 Madhya Pradesh League.
• He scored a century on his First-Class debut against Meghalaya in the 2021-22 Ranji Trophy season.
• Raghuwanshi idolises Rohit Sharma and made his debut at Wankhede, Rohit's home ground.

A debut to remember: six off the first ball

Akshat Raghuwanshi, a 22-year-old batter from Madhya Pradesh, made an unforgettable entry into the Indian Premier League on Monday, May 4, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Facing Will Jacks in the 11th over, he cleared his front leg and thumped the ball over long-on for a massive six, becoming the latest player to hit a six off his first IPL delivery. Raghuwanshi's cameo was brief but explosive. He scored 11 runs off seven balls before being caught and bowled by Raghu Sharma. His dismissal came during a middle-order collapse that followed blistering starts from Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh, but his six remained a standout moment for Lucknow Super Giants.

LSG's gamble on a young prospect

Lucknow Super Giants handed Raghuwanshi his maiden IPL cap in a match against Mumbai Indians, a decision announced by captain Rishabh Pant at the toss. Pant confirmed three changes: Josh Inglis replaced Mukul, Raghuwanshi made his debut, and a third change would be decided during the second innings. LSG, languishing at the bottom of the league table (10th place), have struggled with batting this season. Raghuwanshi's inclusion was seen as a move to inject aggression into the middle order. The franchise had secured his services for INR 2.2 crore at the 2025 mini auction, recognising his potential as a future star.

From Gwalior to the IPL: a rapid rise

Raghuwanshi began playing cricket at the age of three under the guidance of his father in Gwalior. He progressed through age-group cricket and gained recognition during the 2021-22 Ranji Trophy season, scoring a century on his First-Class debut against Meghalaya and a half-century in his second match. He also captained Madhya Pradesh's Under-19 side in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy. In List A cricket, he has scored 361 runs in 17 innings at an average of 22.81, while in T20s he has amassed 63 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 131.25. Despite modest numbers, his attacking intent and fearless approach have drawn praise.

Domestic exploits that caught the eye

Raghuwanshi's breakout performance came in the 2025 Madhya Pradesh League, where he smashed 239 runs in four matches at a staggering strike rate of 177.04, including a knock of 115 off 56 balls. His signature shot, a 'no-look' upper cut, has become his trademark. His exploits earned him comparisons with the best young talents in the country. Venkatesh Iyer, who plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore, was quoted as saying, "At 21, I haven't seen a more talented player. Big things are waiting for him in the future." Former Madhya Pradesh and Kolkata Knight Riders coach Chandrakant Pandit recalled umpiring a practice match when Raghuwanshi was 17 and scoring 165 after being given a reprieve. "The courage he has shown at this level was exactly what I told in the post-match chat with the team," Pandit said.

Debut against his idol Rohit Sharma

In a fitting twist, Raghuwanshi made his IPL debut at the Wankhede Stadium, the home ground of his idol, Rohit Sharma. The young batter has often spoken of his admiration for Rohit, and the opportunity to play against him on the same stage added emotional weight to the occasion. Despite his domestic success, IPL franchises had overlooked Raghuwanshi until LSG signed him. His debut, though short-lived, provided a glimpse of the talent that had made him a sought-after prospect in the auction.

What lies ahead for the young batter

Raghuwanshi's debut innings may have been brief, but his first-ball six has already made him a talking point in the IPL. With LSG struggling at the bottom of the table, the team may look to give him more opportunities to showcase his power-hitting. His ability to accelerate in the middle overs and his fearless approach make him a valuable asset in T20 cricket. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether the 22-year-old can build on his explosive start and cement his place in the Lucknow Super Giants lineup.

The bottom line

• Akshat Raghuwanshi hit a six off his first IPL ball, joining an elite list of players to achieve the feat.
• He was bought for INR 2.2 crore by Lucknow Super Giants after a stellar Madhya Pradesh League season.
• Raghuwanshi scored a century on First-Class debut and has been praised by Venkatesh Iyer and Chandrakant Pandit.
• His debut came against his idol Rohit Sharma at Wankhede Stadium.
• LSG, currently 10th in the standings, are hoping Raghuwanshi can revive their batting fortunes.
• The 22-year-old's signature 'no-look' upper cut and aggressive stroke play mark him as a prospect for the future.