Credit: X
What could have been one of the most memorable nights for a debutant instead turned out to be a horrific affair when the 17-year-old South African pacer Kwena Maphaka was taken on the roll by SunRisers Hyderabad’s batters in the run-fest Hyderabad night.
The young pacer, who flourished in the U-19 World Cup with a player of the tournament performance met with the glitter of the world’s toughest league as soon as he hit the ground against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The southpaw conceded 66 runs in his four overs as seasoned SRH stars took on the Proteas pacer in each of his overs.
In the process, Maphaka even registered an unwanted record of delivering the most expensive spell by a debutant in the history of IPL, eclipsing the previous worst figures of 62 by Michael Neser in 2013 for Punjab Kings.
However, after the horrific game for the youngster, several former superstars of the game took to social media to extend their support to the young cricketer after a forgettable night.
Extending his support to the Proteas young bowler, Kevin Pietersen took to X (formerly Twitter) and said, “I hope Kwena Maphaka wakes up this morning extremely proud of what he achieved last night. There are many seasoned international campaigners that try their level best to get picked up in an IPL auction and just at the age of 17, yes 17, he made is debut as a foreign player. Forget your figures and love what you achieved. You go, buddy! 💫 ”
However, contrary to the other stalwarts, the former South African pacer and young pacer's countrymate was critical on his part in the assessment of the Maphaka's performance on his IPL debut. Taking a dig at his U-19 World Cup heroics, the legendary pacer tweeted, "Maphaka realizing the difference between U19 and the PRO league. Baptism of fire."
Later, Dteyn joined the likes of Pietersen, Bravo, and others and extended his support for Maphaka. Steyn wrote, " I woke up feeling for Kwena Maphaka today, but I know he’s surrounded by some amazing people at MI and he’s gana be absolutely fine.
"His first experience, regardless of result or performance, should still be the most amazing cricket experience he’s ever had. At just 17, it’s only upwards from here. Well done young man 🤙 "