In a season where the Mumbai Indians have struggled for consistency, a fresh and inspiring story has emerged in the form of leg-spinner Raghu Sharma — a cricketer who refused to give up, even when the odds were stacked against him.
For Sharma, the turning point came years ago while watching 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup Final at the Wankhede Stadium, when MS Dhoni's iconic six sealed India's victory. That moment didn't just win a World Cup — it sparked a dream.
Raghu Sharma made his IPL debut only this season, at the age of 33 — an age when many cricketers are already thinking about winding down their careers.
He first played against Chennai Super Kings, delivering a tidy spell of 4 overs for just 24 runs, although he had to wait for his first wicket. That milestone finally came in his next game against Lucknow Super Giants, when he dismissed Akshat Raghuwanshi — fittingly at the Wankhede, the same venue that once inspired him.
'It is a dream come true for me,' Sharma said after claiming his maiden IPL wicket.
Though he debuted in 2026, Sharma had been part of the Mumbai Indians setup since 2025. He was signed as a replacement but spent the entire season on the bench.
Despite not getting a single game, the franchise showed faith by retaining him — a decision that is now paying off.
Sharma remains deeply grateful:
'It has been painful 15 years for me… but MI backed me, believed in me, and gave me this chance.'
Coming from a family dominated by engineers and doctors, Sharma followed the same path and became an electrical engineer himself.
Cricket wasn't an obvious career choice — especially given his physical condition at the time.
'I was 102 kg. I was not fit at all,' he recalled.
Even his father doubted his chances:
'You can't do it… cricket is not for you.'
But Sharma chose persistence over doubt.
Unlike many modern IPL stars who break through in their teens, Sharma only began playing cricket seriously at the age of 21 — long after most age-group opportunities had passed.
'All the age-group chances were gone, but I was determined,' he said.
His journey took him beyond India, with stints in Sri Lanka and England helping him refine his game and mindset.
Sharma has drawn inspiration from spin greats like Shane Warne and Imran Tahir, modelling his craft on their success.
But the emotional spark came from MS Dhoni's unforgettable six in 2011.
'Seeing Dhoni sir hit that six gave me the belief that I can do it too,' he said.
Raghu Sharma's journey is a reminder that success in sport doesn't always follow a straight path.
From being overweight and overlooked to making it to the biggest T20 league in the world, his story underlines a powerful message:
It's never too late to chase your dream.