IPL 2026 continues to spotlight emerging talent, and Shivang Kumar added his name to that list with his debut appearance for Sunrisers Hyderabad in Match 6 against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Thursday, April 2.
The 23-year-old left-arm spinner from Madhya Pradesh was drafted into the playing XI in place of Eshan Malinga following the opening match. Signed for Rs 30 lakh at the mini auction, Shivang arrives with a reputation for his left-arm spin and useful contributions with the bat in the lower order.
Often compared to Noor Ahmad, Shivang has generated interest as one of the notable uncapped players in this season’s IPL, with his ability to trouble batters and add depth to the side.
Rapid Rise from MP T20 League
Shivang Kumar’s progression to the IPL reflects a steady rise through domestic ranks. Representing Bhopal Leopards during their 2025 title-winning campaign in the MP T20 League, he caught the attention of scouts, including those from Sunrisers Hyderabad.
While his tally of five wickets in the tournament may not have stood out at first glance, his economy rate of 7.21 highlighted his control. His left-arm wrist spin, combined with variations such as the googly, has made him an effective option against quality opposition.
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He also demonstrated his batting ability, striking at over 196 and producing a notable 91 off 42 balls during the same competition, reinforcing his all-round value.
Domestic Performances Strengthen Case
Earlier in the year, Shivang made an impact in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with Madhya Pradesh. In three matches, he claimed 10 wickets at an economy rate of 5.16, including a five-wicket haul against Karnataka in Ahmedabad.
He also featured in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he played four matches and picked up four wickets at an economy of 8.05. His best figures in the tournament were 4-0-25-3 against Bihar at Eden Gardens.
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These performances strengthened his credentials and played a role in his selection by SRH.
Journey to the IPL
Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, Shivang attended trials with multiple franchises, including Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals. Although he missed earlier opportunities with Sunrisers Hyderabad due to scheduling issues, the franchise maintained interest, eventually securing his services.
Coming from Rewa in Madhya Pradesh, Shivang’s cricketing development has been shaped by his father, Praveen Kumar, a former Bengal Ranji cricketer and Railways employee. Under his guidance, Shivang transitioned from a right-arm bowler to a left-arm spinner, a decision he has credited as a defining moment in his journey.
Breakthrough Moment
His standout performance came in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he dismantled Karnataka’s batting lineup with a five-wicket haul in Ahmedabad. That spell marked a significant step in his rise and underlined the potential that Sunrisers Hyderabad identified early.
With his IPL debut now underway, Shivang Kumar represents another promising addition to the league’s growing pool of young talent.
