Hardik Pandya was delighted with the impact IPL debutant Ashwani Kumar made as Mumbai Indians routed Kolkata Knight Riders.

Quick Ashwani took 4-24 as KKR were bowled out for a meagre 116 at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday, becoming the Indian with the best bowling figures on their debut in the competition.

Ashwani took a superbly catch as Quinton de Kock was sent packing in the second over, and accounted for the wickets of Ajinkya Rahane (11), Rinku Singh (17), Manish Pandey (19) and Russell (five) in an excellent display.

Speaking after the Indians claimed a first IPL win of the season in an eight-wicket hammering, Hardik was quick to point out the contribution of the 23-year-old seamer.

"Our team is sorted with the players we are backing and the players we have. We thought Ashwani can come in (on this pitch) and bowl the way he bowled," Hardik said.

"It is all scouts - they picked him. They have gone to all the places and picked these young kids. We played a practice game, he had that zip, that late swing, something off the wicket, a different action and he was a leftie.

Storming into a special list

Ashwani Kumar grabbed his opportunity and has made a name in #TATAIPL pic.twitter.com/5AigDeKESg

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2025

"We just backed him and the way he took that wicket of Russell was a very crucial wicket and how he started with the catch of De Kock, it was terrific to see (a fast bowler jumping up to take it).

"When it goes my way, it looks good. But the kind of team we have, we have a lot of young and experienced players combined and I do not have to worry much."

Ashwani earned Player of the Match for his excellent display and added: "It is a big thing for me that I got this opportunity and that I am getting this award. I never thought about this, I just did my process and was happy (to get this award).

"I am from Jhanjheri in Mohali district - to come from there to here, that is the result of my hard work and by God's grace I am here.

"I was confident, but I was a little nervous as well, thinking about what will happen."