Mumbai Indians Introduce Young Talent Krish Bhagat in IPL Match Against Gujarat Titans

In a strategic move to rejuvenate their season, the Mumbai Indians have handed a debut to young cricketer Krish Bhagat during their IPL match against the Gujarat Titans. This decision comes as MI seeks to break a four-match losing streak. Bhagat, a left-handed pacer with impressive skills, was signed after an injury to Atharva Ankolekar. With a notable family background and a promising cricket career, Bhagat's debut is highly anticipated. Discover more about his journey and what this means for the Mumbai Indians.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 20, 2026, 20:31 IST

Mumbai Indians Turn to Youth

In an effort to revitalize their season, the Mumbai Indians have opted to bring in fresh talent, giving Krish Bhagat his debut against the Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on April 20, 2026, during the Indian Premier League (IPL). This match marks a significant moment for Bhagat, who is one of three players introduced into the lineup as MI seeks to break a four-match losing streak. Alongside Bhagat, Danish Malewar also makes his debut, while Mitchell Santner returns to the squad. In contrast, Ryan Rickelton, Deepak Chahar, and Shardul Thakur have been left out.

Background of Krish Bhagat

Family Ties

Krish Bhagat was signed by the Mumbai Indians last week following an injury to all-rounder Atharva Ankolekar, who is sidelined due to a knee issue and will miss the 2026 IPL season. The 21-year-old cricketer was acquired for ₹30 lakhs, matching his base price at the IPL auction, where he initially went unsold. Bhagat is a left-handed pacer known for his ability to contribute with the bat in the lower order, showcasing his power-hitting skills. He is related to Jalandhar MLA Mohinder Bhagat of the Aam Aadmi Party and is the grandson of former BJP minister Bhagat Chunni Lal. His father, Ashwani Bhagat, runs Ceela International, a company specializing in sports goods.

Krish Bhagat's Cricket Journey

Cricket Credentials

Krish has been on the Mumbai Indians' radar for several years and has served as a support bowler for the team over the past two seasons. He also competes for the Reliance team, affiliated with MI, in the DY Patil T20 Cup. According to a statement from MI, "Krish has consistently impressed the coaching staff with his dedication, work ethic, and the quality he brings to every session and practice game for Mumbai Indians. His commitment and development over the years, both in domestic cricket and at Mumbai Indians’ practice sessions this season, have earned him this well-deserved opportunity to transition into the main squad.”

Today marks Bhagat's professional T20 debut, as he has yet to represent his state, Punjab, in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). Throughout his career, he has participated in seven first-class matches, accumulating 464 runs at an average of 18.12 and taking seven wickets. Additionally, he has played nine List A games, scoring 52 runs and claiming nine wickets.