Who is Raghu Sharma? Meet the Leg-Spinner Replacing Vignesh Puthur in Mumbai Indians Squad

Mumbai Indians have signed Raghu Sharma, a seasoned domestic cricketer, as a replacement for the injured Vignesh Puthur for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. While this will be his first time playing in the Indian Premier League, Sharma brings with him years of experience and impressive stats from domestic and overseas competitions.

Vignesh Puthur’s Unfortunate Exit

22-year-old fast bowler Vignesh Puthur had started the season strong, picking up six wickets in five matches—including a three-wicket haul on debut against Chennai Super Kings. However, an injury has ruled him out for the rest of the tournament. Though sidelined, Vignesh will stay with the MI squad and continue rehabilitation with the team’s medical and fitness staff.

Who is Raghu Sharma?

Raghu Sharma, born on March 11, 1993, in Jalandhar, Punjab, is a right-arm leg-break bowler and right-handed batsman. He has represented Punjab and Puducherry in Indian domestic cricket and now steps into the IPL spotlight at the age of 31.

Career Highlights:

• First-Class Cricket: 57 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 19.59, with best bowling figures of 7/56
• List A: 14 wickets in 9 matches
• T20: 3 wickets in 3 appearances

Sharma joins Mumbai Indians at his base price of ₹30 lakh through the Registered Available Player Pool (RAPP).

Overseas Experience and Coaching Background

Beyond India, Raghu has sharpened his skills overseas:

• In Sri Lanka, he played for Galle Cricket Club, taking 46 wickets at 15.71 in the Major League Tournament.
• In England, he starred for Longton Cricket Club, picking up 48 wickets at an average of 13.08 in the North Staffs and South Cheshire League.

He has also trained under former India Test player Madan Lal and holds an ECB Core Coach certification—adding a coaching dimension to his cricketing journey.

A Strategic Move for Mumbai

With five consecutive wins after a slow start, Mumbai Indians are building momentum, and Raghu Sharma’s addition could further strengthen their bowling unit. While he may be new to the IPL, his experience across formats and conditions gives MI a fresh option as the team chases a sixth title.

Will Raghu Sharma make the most of this opportunity? All eyes will be on the veteran leggie as he prepares for his big-stage debut.