Ashwani Kumar is a left-arm fast bowler who represents Punjab in domestic cricket. He earned a name for himself as a death-overs specialist - a bowler capable of outsmarting batters with clever variations. Ashwani Kumar had some eye-catching performances in the 2023 Sher-e-Punjab T20 Trophy, where he finished as the leading wicket-taker and played a key role in his team lifting the title. His skills were spotted by Mumbai Indians scouts, earning him a contract for IPL 2025.

Ashwani made an immediate impact in IPL 2025, enjoying a dream debut for Mumbai Indians. He picked up a stunning 4/24 against Kolkata Knight Riders - the best figures by an Indian bowler on IPL debut, and even struck with his very first ball in the tournament. Over the course of the season, he featured in 7 matches and claimed 11 wickets at an average of around 21, showcasing his ability to deliver breakthroughs, especially in pressure situations. While he had a few expensive outings, his knack for picking wickets and handling high-pressure overs stood out for a young pacer.

Looking ahead, Ashwani Kumar is viewed as a long-term prospect for Mumbai Indians. With his left-arm angle, variations and temperament in crunch moments, he has the potential to grow into a reliable death-overs specialist. If he improves consistency and control, he could become a key part of MI’s bowling core in the coming seasons and even push for higher honours in Indian cricket.