In a stunning display of talent and composure, 19-year-old Arshin Kulkarni announced his arrival on the domestic cricket stage with a century on his List A debut during the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 quarterfinal against Punjab. The young all-rounder, who represents Maharashtra and is part of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in Indian cricket.
A Dream Debut
Playing at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, Kulkarni showcased his batting prowess with a mature and composed innings. Coming in to bat after Maharashtra lost two early wickets, including skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Kulkarni steadied the ship with a crucial 145-run partnership with Ankit Bawne. He scored 107 runs off 137 balls, hitting 14 boundaries, most of which were elegant drives down the ground. His century came in 129 balls, a remarkable feat for a debutant.
Kulkarni’s innings was not just about runs; it was about resilience. With Maharashtra reeling at 8/2, he absorbed the pressure, rebuilt the innings, and laid the foundation for a competitive total of 275/6. His performance was instrumental in Maharashtra’s victory over Punjab, securing their spot in the semi-finals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
A Promising All-Rounder
Kulkarni is not just a batsman; he is a genuine all-rounder. In the same match, he contributed with the ball, taking the crucial wicket of Punjab’s top scorer, Anmolpreet Singh, and finishing with figures of 1/7 in four overs. His ability to contribute in both departments makes him a valuable asset for any team.
IPL Connection
Kulkarni’s talent has already caught the attention of IPL franchises. He was picked by Lucknow Super Giants in the 2024 auction for his base price of ₹30 lakh. Although he has played only two matches for LSG so far, his recent performances in domestic cricket have raised expectations for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. With Rishabh Pant likely to lead LSG, Kulkarni could be a key player in the team’s campaign.
A Bright Future Ahead
Kulkarni’s journey has been nothing short of impressive. A member of the India U-19 squad that finished as runners-up in the 2024 U-19 World Cup, he has consistently performed in domestic tournaments. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he scored 194 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 137, showcasing his ability to adapt to different formats.
His List A debut century has further cemented his reputation as one of the most promising young talents in Indian cricket. With his ability to bat under pressure, bowl useful medium pace, and field energetically, Kulkarni is well on his way to becoming a household name in Indian cricket.
What’s Next for Kulkarni?
As Maharashtra advances to the semi-finals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, all eyes will be on Kulkarni to deliver another match-winning performance. His form will also be crucial for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025, where he could play a pivotal role in the team’s success.
Arshin Kulkarni’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, talent, and self-belief. At just 19, he has already achieved what many cricketers dream of, and the future looks even brighter for this young prodigy.
Stay tuned for more updates on Arshin Kulkarni’s journey as he continues to shine on the cricket field.
