IPL 2026: Young fast bowler Madhav Tiwari caught the attention of fans with an impressive spell for Delhi Capitals during their crucial Indian Premier League 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on Monday, May 11, 2026. Delhi skipper Axar Patel won the toss and elected to field first in what was a must-win match for the Capitals to stay alive in the playoff race. The franchise made five changes to the playing XI, with 22-year-old Madhav Tiwari earning only his second appearance in the IPL.
The youngster made full use of the opportunity and delivered an eye-catching performance with the ball. Bowling with good pace and control, Madhav troubled the Punjab batters with his movement and disciplined line and length. He also claimed the key wickets of Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly during the first innings to leave a strong impression.
Born on September 28, 2003, in Mauganj village in Madhya Pradesh, Madhav Tiwari is regarded as one of the promising pace-bowling all-rounders emerging from the state circuit. Despite not yet making his senior First-Class or List-A debut, the youngster earned an IPL contract after impressing in age-group cricket and franchise tournaments.
Delhi Capitals bought Madhav for INR 40 lakh during the IPL 2025 mega auction and retained him for the 2026 season. He made his IPL debut against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in 2025, where he scored three runs batting at No. 8 but did not get an opportunity to bowl.
Madhav has represented Madhya Pradesh at the Under-19 and Under-23 levels and also featured in the CK Nayudu Trophy during the 2024-25 season. He impressed with two half-centuries in the tournament, including a fighting 83 against Mumbai after Madhya Pradesh had slipped to 183/6 while following on.
The youngster also featured for Bhopal Leopards in the Madhya Pradesh T20 League alongside Aniket Verma. The side was captained by Arshad Khan of Gujarat Titans.
Known for his raw pace and aggressive lower-order batting, Madhav enjoyed a productive campaign in the Madhya Pradesh T20 League. He scored 108 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 180 and smashed a 31-ball 65 in the semifinal against Rewa Jaguars to help Bhopal Leopards reach the final.
Although he is still awaiting his senior domestic debut, Madhav’s breakthrough spell against Punjab Kings has quickly put the spotlight on the emerging Delhi Capitals all-rounder.
