Vyshak Vijaykumar, born on January 31, 1997, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, has emerged as a significant talent in Indian cricket, particularly known for his role as a right-arm medium-fast bowler.
His journey from a budding cricketer to a game-changer for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2025 showcases his determination and versatility.
Early Life and Cricketing Journey
Vyshak began his cricketing career primarily as a batsman, excelling in junior cricket and even scoring a century while leading the Karnataka U-16 team.
However, at the age of 17, he decided to switch to bowling after being encouraged by his academy coach, Ramana, who believed that his future lay in fast bowling due to the high competition among batsmen.
This pivotal decision marked the start of Vyshak’s transformation into a medium-pace bowler.
His breakthrough came during the 2020-21 Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he made his List A debut for Karnataka.
He continued to impress with his performances, making his T20 debut in the 2021-22 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and subsequently his first-class debut in the 2021-22 Ranji Trophy.
Rise to Prominence in IPL
Vyshak’s entry into the Indian Premier League (IPL) was marked by an unexpected opportunity. In 2023, he was named as a replacement for the injured Rajat Patidar while playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Transitioning from a net bowler to a key player in just weeks, Vyshak made a memorable debut against Delhi Capitals, taking three wickets for just 20 runs.
He finished his inaugural IPL season with nine wickets from seven matches, showcasing his potential as a reliable bowler.
In the 2024 IPL season, Vyshak continued to impress with RCB, taking 13 wickets in 11 matches. His performances earned him recognition and respect within the league.
Transition to Punjab Kings
After RCB released him following the 2024 season, Vyshak was acquired by Punjab Kings during the IPL 2025 auction for INR 1.8 crore.
His consistent performances in domestic cricket, including an outstanding 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season where he claimed 39 wickets and scored a century, solidified PBKS’s faith in his abilities.
Playing Style and Impact
Vyshak Vijaykumar is known for his right-arm medium pace and effective variations that make him a challenging bowler for opposing batsmen.
His ability to perform under pressure and take crucial wickets has made him an asset for PBKS. As he steps onto the field in IPL 2025, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he continues to evolve as a player and contribute to his team’s success.
