In a remarkable turn of events at the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai, former India captain Sourav Ganguly promise to budding cricketer Kumar Kushagra bore fruit. After an intense bidding war, Delhi Capitals secured the talented wicketkeeper-batter for a substantial Rs 7.20 crore.
Kumar’s father, Shashikant, revealed Ganguly’s unwavering faith in his son after impressive trials held by the Delhi Capitals (DC) franchise. Sourav Ganguly, captivated by Kumar Kushagra six-hitting prowess, fielding skills, and impressive wicketkeeping, assured him a spot in the team, vowing to bid up to Rs 10 crore for his services.
“After the trials at Eden (Gardens), Ganguly told Kumar Kushagra that he would play for the Delhi Capitals and the franchise would bid for him till Rs 10 crore,” Shashikant shared in an interview with The Indian Express from Jamshedpur.
“Sourav Ganguly was impressed with his six-hitting ability and ability to play the field. His keeping skills also impressed Ganguly, and even told him that there is a bit of MS Dhoni in him when he whips the bails,” he added.
The 19-year-old cricketer hailing from Jharkhand became a sought-after player, with Delhi Capitals engaging in a bidding war against Gujarat Titans to secure Kushagra for Rs 7.20 crore.
Kumar Kushagra to Delhi Capitals
Shashikant expressed his initial disbelief, expecting his son to be picked at the base price. The realization of Ganguly’s promise and the subsequent bidding war led to a joyful and surprising outcome, a moment Shashikant described as “that kind of day.”
Kumar Kushagra cricketing journey began at home under the guidance of his father, who, despite not having played cricket at any level, dedicatedly coached his son. Using the book “Art and Science of Cricket” by Bob Woolmer as his coaching guide, Shashikant honed Kushagra’s skills, reading the book multiple times to provide effective training.
Kumar Kushagra, who was part of the Indian team in the 2020 U-19 World Cup and made headlines with a spectacular 266-run innings in the 2021-22 Ranji Trophy, showcased his prowess.
Despite his T20 strike rate of 117.64 not aligning with the significant sum paid by the Capitals, his notable performance in the BCCI’s white-ball tournament, especially against Maharashtra, where he scored 67 off 37 balls in a successful chase of 355, adds to the anticipation surrounding his future performances in the Delhi Capitals jersey.
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