Naman Dheer: Mumbai Indians’ Rising Star
Naman Dhir is a name that is rapidly emerging in the Indian cricket conversation today. Born on 31 December 1999 in Ambala (Haryana), Naman built a strong base for himself playing domestic cricket for Punjab. His journey is an underdog story – there was a time when he was planning to quit cricket and go to Canada, but his father asked him to try for one more year. And now, Naman has become a key finisher and middle-order batsman for MI (Mumbai Indians), with a strike rate of 170+. In this blog, we will discuss his background, cricket journey, rise in IPL, and his future potential in full detail.
Naman Dhir Overview
Personal & Cricket Profile
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Naam | Naman Dhir |
| Janam | 31 December 1999, Ambala, Haryana |
| Domestic Team | Punjab |
| IPL Team | Mumbai Indians (MI) |
| Role | Batsman (Finisher / Middle-order) |
| Batting Style | Aggressive, big-hitting finisher |
Career Journey: Starting with the Journey
- Domestic Cricket: Naman Dhir began his cricket career with Punjab’s domestic side. He delivered consistent performances in the Ranji Trophy and contributed to Punjab’s victories in tournaments like the SMAT.
- IPL Entry (2024): In the IPL 2024 auction, MI bought him at his base price (₹20 lakh). He was given an initial chance when Suryakumar Yadav was injured, and Naman Dhir batted at No. 3 on his debut against GT.
- Breakthrough Performance (2024): That season, Naman scored 392 runs in 23 matches, averaging around 28 and having a high strike rate. His batting included 36 fours and 23 sixes. Specifically, he also played a crucial knock of 62* against LSG.
- IPL Retention (2025): In IPL 2025, MI retained Naman Dhir for a hefty sum – ₹5.25 crore (using RTM card). This was a huge jump from his base price, and it shows that the franchise has a lot of faith in him.
- Almost Quit: A very inspiring thing is that Naman was planning to quit cricket and go to Canada at one point. But his father convinced him and said, “Try one more year.” And in that one more year his destiny changed.
Success in India A: A New Turn
November 2025 was a special month for Naman Dhir, as he was appointed vice-captain of the India A squad for the DP World Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025.
- Jitesh Sharma became the captain, and Naman Dhir his deputy.
- He is joined by other young talents in the squad, such as Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Priyansh Arya.
- November 16: In the India A vs Pakistan Shaheens match, Naman scored 35 runs (20 balls), including 7 fours and 4 sixes. There was also tension: Pakistani bowler Saad Masood sent him off, and Naman showed his temper by making eye contact—this moment went viral.
- 18 November (today): India A had to chase Oman; Naman Dhir scored 30 runs (a fighting knock) and also took a wicket with his bowling. The BCCI also wrote on its social media: “Naman Dhir delivers – 30 runs & a key wicket!”
These vice-captaincy and match-winning contributions for India A show that Naman Dhir has the potential to be not just a finisher, but a leader.
Why is it trending?
Naman Dhir’s name is currently trending rapidly on Twitter and cricket forums. Some key reasons:
- Big jump in IPL — His retention of ₹5.25 crore surprised fans and analysts.
- Indo-Pak drama — His send-off and aggressive reply against Pakistan Shaheens are making viral videos.
- Leadership in India A — Becoming the vice-captain is a major milestone.
- Consistency in the finisher role — His batting style and strike rate make him a match-winner.
- Inspirational backstory – Almost planned to quit cricket, but dad supported him and now he has become a 5-crore player – this story motivates many people, especially students and young aspirants.
Conclusion
Naman Dhir is a cricketing talent whose journey spans from an underdog story to IPL stardom and India A leadership. Rising from Ambala to play for the Punjab domestic team, joining MI at a base price, and then earning a ₹5.25 crore retention—all of this demonstrates his dedication and hard work. He has also proven his maturity and leadership potential by becoming the vice-captain of India A.
His aggressive yet responsible batting style, high strike rate, and match-winning temperament make him a valuable asset for Mumbai Indians and Indian cricket. His story is an inspiration for all of us – whether we are students, aspirants, or struggling in any career, Naman Dhir’s journey teaches us that with patience, hard work and a supportive attitude, big transformations are possible.
