Praful Hinge’s IPL debut on April 13, 2026, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad has set a new benchmark in the league’s history. Hinge, playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad, achieved the unprecedented feat of taking three wickets in his very first over, dismissing key players Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, and Lhuan-dre Pretorius.
This remarkable performance not only highlights Hinge’s potential but also marks him as the first bowler in IPL history to achieve such a milestone in the opening over of a batting innings. He concluded the match with impressive figures of 4 wickets for 34 runs, showcasing his skills as a right-arm pacer from Vidarbha.
Prior to his IPL debut, Hinge had played only one T20 match and had built a steady reputation in domestic cricket, having taken 27 wickets in 10 first-class matches at an average of 26.66. His signing by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 30 lakh ahead of the 2026 season reflects the team’s confidence in his abilities.
Hinge’s journey to this point has not been without challenges; he has dealt with back injuries and has worked diligently with former cricketer Varun Aaron to refine his bowling action. His training at the MRF Pace Foundation since 2022 has also contributed to his development as a cricketer.
In preparation for the IPL season, Hinge spent 15 days in a training camp in Brisbane, which likely played a role in his exceptional debut performance. The cricketing community is now keenly observing his progress and potential for the remainder of the season.
As the IPL unfolds, Hinge’s future performances will be closely monitored, with fans and analysts eager to see if he can maintain his early success. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments in his training or health status, but his debut has certainly made a significant impact in the league.
