Debut Delight: Madhya Pradesh Teen Akshat Raghuwanshi Announces Arrival With First-Ball Six

Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant handed Raghuwanshi his maiden IPL cap in a high-stakes clash against Mumbai Indians. Bought for ₹2.2 crore in the 2025 auction, the youngster was already a talked-about name in domestic cricket before his debut.

Early Life And Domestic Career

Raghuwanshi began playing cricket at the age of three under his father’s guidance in Gwalior. He rose through age-group cricket and announced himself in the 2021–22 Ranji Trophy season with a century on debut against Meghalaya, followed by a fifty in his second match. He also captained Madhya Pradesh’s U-19 side in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy.

IPL Debut Moment

Facing Will Jacks in the 11th over, Raghuwanshi cleared his front leg and launched the ball over long-on for a massive six. Though he was dismissed for 11 runs off 7 balls by Raghu Sharma, that first-ball six electrified the crowd and showcased his fearless intent. 

Playing Style And Achievements

Known for his aggressive batting and signature no-look upper cut, Raghuwanshi scored 239 runs in four matches at a strike rate of 177.04 in the Madhya Pradesh League 2025, including a blistering 115 off 56 balls. His idol is Rohit Sharma, making his debut at Wankhede—Rohit’s home ground—especially symbolic. 

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Age: 17, from Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

•⁠  ⁠IPL Team: Lucknow Super Giants, bought for ₹2.2 crore

•⁠  ⁠Domestic Career: Century on Ranji debut, U-19 captain for MP

•⁠  ⁠IPL Debut: First-ball six off Will Jacks, scored 11 runs

•⁠  ⁠Style: Aggressive stroke play, fearless intent, idolizes Rohit Sharma

Sources: Outlook India, India Today, Crictoday, Mint