International bowlers Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger picked up two wickets apiece, and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also took a couple of wickets. Among the big names, debutant Brijesh Sharma also chipped in with a wicket.

Who is Brijesh Sharma?

Brijesh Sharma is a 27-year-old right-arm medium pace. He hails from Jammu and Kashmir and comes from the Dandial area of Udhampur. Carrying a natural ability to generate bounce, Brijesh is well-renowned in the local circuits of J&K. He has represented the state at the Under-19 and U-25 levels. However, his emergence to the IPL came after a long struggle. Growing up as the son of a labourer, Brijesh endured daunting challenges, including financial hurdles. However, he was determined to achieve his dream and shifted base to Delhi to train under Deepak Punia at the Unique Sports Club.

Despite making waves in the local circuit, he was still in search of a big break. His fortunes changed after he decided to play in the 2025 Bengal Pro T20 League. He represented Smashers Malda and played at the iconic Eden Gardens. He finished at the joint-fifth highest wicket-taker, claiming 11 wickets in seven matches. His ability to bowl both during the powerplay and at the death overs caught the attention of Rajasthan Royals scouts.

How did Brijesh Sharma fare in his debut match?

Bowling for Rajasthan Royals, Brijesh Sharma picked up the wicket of Kartik Sharma. He flummoxed the batter with a pitched-up delivery, which hit the pad of Kartik and got the favourable LBW decision from both the on-field umpire and the third umpire after being referred. The wicket proved to be key for RR as Kartik was batting at 18 off 14 at the moment, and was looking to shift gears. Besides picking up the wicket, he kept the pressure on CSK by bowling tight overs. Brijesh bowled three overs, took his maiden wicket and conceded just 17 runs.

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