Follow UsNaman Dhir had played just five T20s before he was handed a debut in Mumbai Indians’ first encounter of the Indian Premier League 2024.
The 24-year-old impressed in his very first game, smashing 20 off 10 against Gujarat Titans. In the next game against SRH, he hit 30 off 14 before falling for a duck against Rajasthan Royals.
“Every cricketer dreams of playing in the IPL. And I am grateful to the Mumbai Indians, one of the most successful teams, for giving me this opportunity. The team atmosphere is excellent, and I am enjoying it,” said Dhir ahead of Mumbai’s fourth game against Delhi Capitals on April 7 (Sunday).
“A day before the game [vs Gujarat], Hardik bhai came up to me and said you will be playing. Also, I think I got a place in the team since I performed well in the practice matches.
“Speaking of batting advice, the seniors have told me to play my own game. I don’t need to prove anything to anyone. They have told me I should be free to go out and express myself without feeling pressured," he added.
Mumbai have lost all their three games and are the only winless franchise in this year’s IPL. This is not something new for MI who have a history of being slow-starters in the IPL.
“The atmosphere is still good, and the team bond is strong. There are still 11 games to go; hopefully, we will qualify for the next stage. I haven’t set any goals. I am just enjoying the process of playing freely and trying to play cricket, which helps the team win games," Dhir, who has scored 20, 30 and 0 in his three innings, said.