Abhinandan Singh, a promising pace bowler from Uttar Pradesh, has captured attention ahead of his IPL debut for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Set to play against the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Singh made headlines by dismissing star batsman Virat Kohli twice during RCB’s practice matches. This remarkable achievement highlights his rise from tennis-ball cricket to the professional arena.
Abhinandan Singh: From Tennis-Ball Cricket to IPL
Four years ago, Abhinandan was honing his skills in tennis-ball matches. Known for his fast bowling in his hometown of Pratapgarh, he made a significant transition to leather-ball cricket in 2020. A pivotal moment in his career came when coach Randhir Singh urged him to dedicate himself fully to cricket.
Singh’s hard work paid off in the UP T20 League, where he performed impressively. In the 2024 season, he secured 15 wickets in 10 matches while bowling alongside established players like Bhuvneshwar Kumar. His follow-up performance in 2025 included eight wickets and featured a standout four-wicket haul against the Gorakhpur Lions.
The IPL Auction and RCB Signing
Abhinandan’s journey to RCB was not without its challenges. During the IPL 2025 auction, his name was initially overlooked, and disappointment loomed. “I thought I had gone unsold. I tried to stay calm,” he recalled. However, during a rapid selection round, his dreams materialized when RCB selected him.
“I was stunned. I just saw my name and RCB together,” he said, reflecting on the moment. His sudden fame spread quickly through Pratapgarh, which had never seen a local player reach such heights.
The Bowling Style of Abhinandan Singh
What sets Abhinandan Singh apart as a bowler is not sheer pace, but his ability to deceive batsmen. He typically bowls at a speed that is harder for batsmen to gauge, often delivering outswingers at a high release point. This strategy paid off in practice matches, where he successfully dismissed well-regarded batters like Kohli and Phil Salt.
- His performance against top players demonstrates his potential to disrupt opposing line-ups.
- Having worked as a net bowler for KKR, he gained exposure to high-caliber players, enhancing his skills.
Role in RCB’s Bowling Attack
RCB faces challenges in its pace bowling department due to injuries to key players. With Josh Hazlewood sidelined and Yash Dayal out for the season, Abhinandan has the opportunity to fill a crucial role. His disciplined training and support from RCB staff have prepared him for this moment.
His bowling strategy in the middle overs and potential death overs could prove vital against SRH’s aggressive batting lineup. With the Chinnaswamy Stadium’s conditions likely to assist bowlers, Abhinandan Singh could very well become a key player in IPL 2026.
As Abhinandan takes the field tonight, fans and experts alike will be watching closely. From a modest beginning in Pratapgarh to making his mark in the IPL, his journey exemplifies the spirit and unpredictability of cricket. Keep an eye on this rising star; his story is just beginning.
