IPL 2018: Brett Lee praises young KKR speedster

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee showered compliments on the latest find of the Indian Premier League, young Shivam Mavi. The 19-year-old pacer from Uttar Pradesh is one of the young additions to the Kolkata Knight Riders squad in 2018. After a commendable performance in the U19 World Cup earlier this year, Mavi was noticed by the franchise and he was picked up by KKR management for a whopping 3 crores.

Brett Lee is regularly seen on the match shows this IPL. On one of his appearances, Lee spoke highly of the new talent and called him the “future of Indian bowlers”. Lee also praised him for being a complete package and enjoying the game while at it, just like young players should. Clearly, Brett Lee sees some true potential in this new kid on the block.

Speaking about Mavi’s performance, Lee said, “I think Mavi has got everything. His actions are beautiful and he packs himself as a fully furnished bowler. With youngsters like Mavi, it’s extremely important to play with confidence, enjoying the spirit of the game.”

“He knows what he’s doing and it looks like he really enjoys his cricket. I think Mavi for me is the future for Indian bowlers.”

Coming from one of the best pacers of all time, Mavi was overwhelmed and expressed his gratitude over Twitter. His tweet said, “Truly blessed. Words of appreciation coming from one of the best in business . Means alot.”

Truly blessed. Words of appreciation coming from one of the best in business . Means alot. ? https://t.co/jGmFmtRZco

— Shivam Mavi (@ShivamMavi23) May 5, 2018

Consistently bowls at 140 kph

Mavi was already getting recognition in the cricketing circuit for his breakneck speed in the tournament, after clocking at more than 140 kmph constantly. He came into the limelight after dismissing the then Delhi Daredevils captain Gautam Gambhir in only seven balls. The match was Gambhir’s homecoming of sorts to the Eden Gardens, as he spent the last many years leading the KKR team and winning twice.

But it was also only the second outing of Mavi after debuting against the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the same venue. He has proved himself to be a formidable pace battery against any team and most certainly has the potential to crack into the Indian team and perform in the national colours.

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