Who is Danish Malewar, MI’s latest debutant in IPL 2026

AHMEDABAD: Mumbai Indians have handed an Indian Premier League (IPL) debut to young 22-year-old Vidarbha batter, Danish Malewar. Malewar slots in at the top of the batting order, at the expense of the South African opener, Ryan Rickelton.

The 22-year-old has been one of the most exciting talents on India’s domestic circuit, smashing three centuries and ten half-centuries in the red-ball format, averaging 49.42. Malewar, more importantly, smashed a colossal double century in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final against North East Zone.

At one point during the domestic season, Malewar scored six half-centuries in eight innings, and was instrumental in Vidarbha’s success. Even in the inaugural edition of Vidarbha Pro T20, the right-hander finished as the second highest run-scorer.

However, the youngster is yet to play a T20, and the clash against GT will be his first.