Indian Premier League (IPL) Once again a new young talent has emerged who is capable of thriving under pressure on the biggest stage. On a tense evening in Dharamshala, where Delhi Capitals (DC) faced a must-win situation against Punjab Kings (PBKS)It was not one of the established stars but a relatively unknown youngster who emerged as a game-changer. Making only his second IPL appearance, Madhav Tiwari Announced himself in style with a composed all-round performance that helped Delhi Capitals seal a dramatic three-wicket win.
Who is Madhav Tiwari?
Born on 28 September 2003 in Mauganj village of Madhya Pradesh, Madhav is considered one of the most promising fast bowling all-rounders of the state. Although he has not yet represented Madhya Pradesh in first-class or List-A cricket, the youngster has steadily built a reputation through age-group cricket and franchise-level T20 tournaments.
Delhi Capitals recognized his potential early and secured him for Rs 40 lakh during the IPL 2025 mega auction before retaining him for the 2026 season. He made his IPL debut in 2025 against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, where he scored just 3 runs and did not get a chance to bowl in that game.
Madhav Tiwari’s rise in Madhya Pradesh cricket
Before coming into the IPL limelight, Madhav consistently impressed in the Madhya Pradesh cricket circuit. He represented the state at both the under-19 and under-23 levels and also featured in the 2024–25 CK Nayudu Trophy.
One of his standout performances was against Mumbai, where he played a fighting inning of 83 runs after Madhya Pradesh were reeling at 183/6. His innings displayed not only power-hitting ability but also composure under pressure, which became evident later in the IPL.
Success in Madhya Pradesh T20 League
Madhav further enhanced his reputation with the Sunrisers Hyderabad batsman representing Bhopal Leopards in the Madhya Pradesh T20 League Aniket Verma. The team was captained by the fast bowler of Gujarat Titans. Arshad KhanAnd Madhav played a vital role in their journey to the final.
Known for his aggressive lower-order batting and raw pace, the youngster scored 108 runs at a strike rate of 180 in five innings during the tournament. His most memorable innings came in the semi-final against Rewa Jaguars, where he scored a blistering 65 runs in just 31 balls to take Bhopal Leopards to the final.
Madhav Tiwari’s brilliant night against Punjab Kings
Delhi Capitals included Madhav in the playing eleven as part of five changes for their crucial clash against Punjab Kings and the youngster immediately repaid the faith. His first major success came when he was out Priyansh AryaWho was threatening to take away the game with a devastating innings. Later he took another wicket in his name cooper connolly Concluding with an impressive spell based on discipline and clever use of circumstances in Dharamshala.
Although his bowling initially grabbed the headlines, Madhav’s patient batting during the chase really highlighted his temperament. Delhi found themselves under pressure in the latter stages, before the youngster came through and played a fearless unbeaten inning of 18 runs off just 8 balls. Speaking after the match, Madhav credited the atmosphere at Delhi Capitals for helping him quickly establish himself in IPL cricket.
“This is my second year in the IPL. I think I’m quite used to this environment.” Madhav said after receiving the Player of the Match award.
Also read: Fans rejoice as Axar Patel and David Miller celebrate in DC’s thrilling win over PBKS in IPL 2026
‘100% batsman and 100% bowler’ mentality
Interestingly, while growing up in Indore, Madhav revealed that batting was always his first love. However, under the guidance of former India cricketer and coach Amay Khurasia, he developed into a genuine all-rounder.
“I would like to say that I am 100% bowler and 100% batsman.” Madhav said confidently after the match.
The youngster also credited Delhi Capitals batting coach Ian Bell for encouraging him to rely on his natural power-hitting ability instead of hitting extraordinary shots under pressure. Madhav further revealed that he has spent a lot of time working on his bowling with Munaf Patel, as well as sharpening his range-hitting with the batting coaches during training sessions.
Stayed grounded despite initial success
Despite his sudden burst into limelight, Madhav remains firm on his long-term ambitions. The youngster openly admits that representing India is his ultimate dream, but he understands that a lot of work is still needed to reach that level. Behind his calm nature is a strong support system. Madhav revealed that his father runs a transportation business and his family has always supported his cricket journey wholeheartedly.
For Delhi Capitals, victory over Punjab Kings kept their season alive. However, for Madhav, the night in Dharamsala may be remembered as the moment when Indian cricket discovered its latest all-round sensation.
