Young South African pace sensation Kwena Maphaka has signed for Indian Premier League side Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL 2024. Maphaka, who impressed one and all with his powerful performances in the U-19 World Cup, has not been drafted into the MI squad yet. MI on Wednesday officially announced the South African pacer’s inclusion in the squad.
The 17-year-old left arm seamer’s impressive yorkers and diverse skill set have garnered him high praise and seem to be paving the way for him to eventually join the Proteas senior squad. The left-arm seamer was adjudged the player of the tournament in the U-19 World Cup following exploits that saw him finish as the leading wicket-taker of the tournament with 21 wickets.
He participated in three CSA T20 Challenge games for the Lions following the World Cup. According to a report from TimesLive, following the final match on Sunday, Rabada—who represents Maphaka through his KGR sports agency—got a call from the Mumbai Indians asking for Maphaka’s services.
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According to the same report, he has taken up a high-profile contract with the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The report also stated that Mumbai Indians have arranged to provide tutorship for Maphaka so his academic work is not severely affected.