Who is Nikit Dhumal?
Nikit Dhumal, the 33-year-old is a medium pacer who plays for the Ratnagiri Jets in the Maharashtra Premier League (MPL). Making his First-Class debut for Maharashtra in 2012, Dhumal initially struggled to secure a consistent spot in the team. His debut match against Delhi was a mixed experience; he impressed by taking three wickets in the first innings but had a less successful spell in the second.
In 2015, Dhumal made his List A debut, coincidentally also in Delhi, where he picked up two wickets against Tripura. His T20 debut for Maharashtra came in 2017, marking the beginning of a more consistent presence across all formats.
In that debut, he delivered a remarkable performance, taking 3/18 against Baroda. Throughout his domestic career, Dhumal has amassed 55 wickets across all formats, showcasing his bowling prowess.
Born in Pune, Dhumal is an ardent fan of Test cricket, idolizing the legendary West Indian bowling quartet. Despite his passion for the longer format, his most significant contributions have come in T20 cricket. In 2022, he served as a net bowler for the Chennai Super Kings during the IPL, gaining valuable experience.
Nikit Dhumal has been a vital cog in Ratnagiri Jets’ pace battery
Nikit Dhumal was bought by the Ratnagiri Jets for INR 2.6 lakh in the MPL 2023 auction, making him one of the most expensive players on their roster. His standout performance came in the 2023 MPL final, where he bowled a sensational spell of 2/12, including a maiden over, helping his team clinch the title.
Continuing his impressive form, Dhumal began the 2024 MPL season with a stellar performance against the PBG Kolhapur Tuskers, taking 2 wickets for just 15 runs in 3 overs.
His wicket-taking abilities were on full display against the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Kings, where he dismissed key players Onkar Khatpe and Digvijay Patil, both of whom had scored half-centuries. He also took the crucial wicket of Om Bhosale, finishing with figures of 3/47 in a high-scoring match.
Throughout the 2024 season, Dhumal registered six wickets in seven innings, contributing significantly to the Jets’ victorious campaign. Known for his ability to pick up wickets during the middle overs, he remains an integral part of the Ratnagiri Jets’ formidable bowling unit.
His consistent performances and knack for delivering at crucial moments have made him a vital cog in the team’s success, underscoring his importance in the MPL and domestic cricket.
