Chennai: When Vignesh Puthur was included in Mumbai Indians' impact substitute list, no one could have predicted that the 23-year-old from Kerala would make an impression in his debut match against Chennai Super Kings. MS Dhoni's team appeared to be in control of the chase when the youngster from Malappuram came in for Rohit Sharma.

His impact was immediate. Vignesh struck by removing Chennai skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and followed up with the wickets of Shivam Dube and Deepak Hooda in quick succession. With three crucial wickets for just 32 runs, he made a remarkable debut in the IPL.

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The left-arm wrist spinner from Perinthalmanna in Malappuram came on the radar of Mumbai Indians scouts following his outstanding performance for the Alappuzha Ripples in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL). The Mumbai franchise invited him for trials, where he performed in front of legendary Sri Lankan cricketer Mahela Jayawardene, IPL superstar Kieron Pollard, and Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya. Vignesh still cherishes the memory of Pandya personally congratulating him with a 'well done' after one of the trials.

Following that, his name was included in the IPL auction list. Mumbai showed interest in the youngster and picked him for the team at the auction.

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Being selected by Mumbai Indians was a dream come true for the son of an auto driver. Vignesh is the only son of Sunil Kumar and KP Bindu, who live near a private bus stand in Perinthalmanna. He is an MA student in English at the PTM Government College, Perinthalmanna.

Vignesh's journey to the heights of cricket was not an overnight success. He began under the guidance of coach Vijayan in Perinthalmanna. He steadily climbed the ladder from there and represented Kerala in the Under-14, Under-19, and Under-23 categories. A turning point in his career came when he played for Allapuzha Ripples.

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Although Vignesh never played for the Kerala Ranji team or other senior teams, his IPL debut has garnered attention, and the spin sensation from Kerala is now poised for great heights.

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