'I haven't seen a bowling performance like this since 2008' - Suresh Raina on Akash Madhwal's five-wicket haul

Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) cricketer Suresh Raina hailed the Mumbai Indians' (MI) pacer, Akash Madhwal's sensational five-wicket haul performance that led MI to beat Lucknow Super Giants by 81 runs in the IPL 2023 Eliminator. While opting to bat first, MI posted 182 for 8, with Cameron Green leading the way with a 41 off 23 while Suryakumar Yadav contributed 33 off 20. Speaking of LSG bowlers, with four wickets, Naveen-ul-Haq was LSG's best bowler while Yash Thakur took three wickets to restrict MI to 182/8.

In reply, LSG got folded for a paltry 101 in 16.3 overs while chasing the target. Marcus Stoinis led LSG in scoring with 40 off 27, while none of his batting teammates contributed significantly. For MI Akash Madhwal starred with the ball as he returned with memorable figures of 5-5 in 3.3 overs.

The 29-year-old dismissed opener Prerak Mankad (2), before returning later to dismiss Ayush Badoni (1), Nicholas Pooran (0), Ravi Bishnoi (3), and Mohsin Khan (0), respectively. Former Indian cricketer, Suresh Raina was seemingly mesmerised by the Mumbai Indians' pacer as he stated that he has not seen any bowler perform so astoundingly well since the IPL started in 2008.

He’s an uncapped player who hasn’t even played much: Raina

Furthermore, Raina also pointed out the fact that Akash Madhwal is an uncapped player who performed in a high-pressure game certainly speaks volumes about the new pace sensation. the former Southpaw also credited the Mumbai Indians franchise for showing faith and backing the youngster.

“What’s best was that he got a chance to bowl with the new ball. They trusted him after he bowled well at the Wankhede. All credit should go to his coaching staff. His run-up is great. I haven’t seen a bowling performance like this since 2008. He’s an uncapped player who hasn’t even played much, but taking five wickets in a Qualifier? Sensational performance,” Raina told Jio Cinema.

The five-time IPL champions, Mumbai Indians are all set to take on the reigning champions, Gujarat Titans in a crucial Qualifier 2, on Friday, May 26, at the Narendra Modi Stadium, in Ahmedabad, to determine who will face Chennai Super Kings, the four-time champions, in the mega final game on Sunday, for the ultimate glory.