May 8, Dharamsala, 2025 Madhav Tiwari, a talented all-round player from Madhya Pradesh, made his debut for Delhi Capitals (DC) in their pivotal match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, marking the debut of a new face in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Rain and a soggy ground caused the match to be delayed, and the toss was ultimately held at 8:15 PM, 75 minutes past the original time. Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and opted to bat first, citing the wet ground conditions that might improve as the game progresses. Iyer named an unchanged playing XI, while Delhi Capitals made one change, handing a debut to 21-year-old Madhav Tiwari, who replaced spin-bowling all-rounder Vipraj Nigam.
DC captain Axar Patel confirmed the change at the toss, stating that the team wanted to try a different approach by bringing in a pace-bowling all-rounder. The inclusion of Tiwari adds more flexibility to the DC lineup, especially with his ability to contribute in multiple departments.
Born on September 28, 2003, in Mauganj, Madhya Pradesh, Madhav Tiwari is a right-handed batsman and right-arm medium-fast bowler. Tiwari has start his carier at junior-level and league cricket, despite not having yet played for the Madhya Pradesh senior domestic team. His journey began with the Indore Division Under-15 and Under-18 teams, where he also led the Under-18 squad to a championship win, scoring a double century in a key match.
Tiwari's potential as a seam bowler was highlighted by his outstanding performance in the 2021–22 MK Bhaya Trophy, where he ended as the leading wicket-taker of the match. His performances and strong ability as a batsman and bowler helped him the Delhi Capitals select him for ₹40 lakh in the auction.
Tiwari had a breakthrough season in the Madhya Pradesh T20 League in 2024 while playing for the Bhopal Leopards. He scored 72 runs at a staggering strike rate of 205.71, took three wickets, and even registered a hat-trick against the Rewa Division. He also shown outstanding fielding abilities with six catches and establishing himself as a dynamic player.
Though primarily seen as a bowling all-rounder, Tiwari's clean hitting and flexibility in the lower middle order provide a much-needed cushion for Delhi, especially in high-pressure games.
The matchup between the Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings on Thursday night is vital for both teams. A fresh, youthful player like Madhav Tiwari may be revolutionary for Delhi Capital. Tiwari's debut has surprised Delhi supporters and cricket fans, they are anxious to see the emergence of another up-and-coming Indian player.
As the IPL continues to be a platform for emerging talent to shine, Madhav Tiwari's debut representing another new talent to IPL