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NEW DELHI: Shivang Kumar’s path to the IPL is anything but typical. The 23-year-old spinner from Moradabad made his debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad earlier this season. What sets his story apart is a blend of bold decisions, challenges, and unexpected inspiration from the film “MS Dhoni: The Untold Story.”
From Rs 30 Lakh to IPL Debut
Selected for Rs 30 lakh in the 2026 mini auction, Shivang’s rise to stardom didn’t occur overnight. His journey began in the railway colony of Harthala, where his father, Praveen Kumar, a Chief Ticket Inspector and former Bengal Ranji cricketer, became instrumental in his cricketing training.
A Bold Transformation: Right-Handed to Left-Arm Spinner
In an unconventional move, Shivang transitioned from being right-handed to a left-arm wrist spinner, a decision he later described as his father’s “masterpiece.”
A Tough Pause and a Turning Point
Like many aspiring cricketers, Shivang faced periods of doubt. After failing to secure a spot on the Under-14 team, he took a five-month hiatus, believing his career was over. However, inspiration struck when he watched “MS Dhoni: The Untold Story,” prompting him to reevaluate his decision to quit the sport. The film’s portrayal of Dhoni’s struggles resonated with him, motivating Shivang to return to cricket with a revitalized spirit.
Unexpected Parallels with Usman Tariq
Interestingly, his story parallels that of Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq, who also found motivation in the same film. Tariq expressed, “I came back to cricket after watching the MS Dhoni movie. Our stories mirror each other. I returned to cricket thanks to MS Dhoni.”
Impressive Performances That Opened Doors
Once he made his return, Shivang allowed his performances to speak for themselves. He shone in domestic cricket, particularly during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he took 10 wickets in just three matches. A standout five-wicket haul against Karnataka marked a turning point, placing him on the radar of IPL scouts.
Challenges and Long-Awaited IPL Opportunity
In T20 cricket, he showcased his potential with a best spell of 3/25 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. These performances eventually led to IPL opportunities, but not without hurdles. He participated in trials for several franchises and faced scheduling conflicts that cost him chances with Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, SRH did not forget him, returning to secure him at base price during the auction, finally giving him the break he had been eagerly anticipating.
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