Manoj Shivaramsa Bhandage, born on October 5, 1998, in Raichur, Karnataka, is an emerging Indian cricketer recognized for his all-round capabilities. A left-handed batsman and right-arm medium-fast bowler, Bhandage has made significant strides in domestic cricket and is gaining attention in the Indian Premier League (IPL).myKhel+6ESPN Cricinfo+6CREX+6Crictoday
Early Life and Domestic Career
Bhandage’s cricketing journey began in Raichur, where he honed his skills in tennis ball cricket before transitioning to formal training in Bengaluru. He made his Twenty20 debut for Karnataka in the 2018–19 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on February 21, 2019. His performances in domestic circuits, including the Karnataka Premier League (KPL) and the Maharaja T20 Trophy, showcased his potential as a dynamic all-rounder. Notably, during the 2024 Maharaja T20 Trophy, he scored 292 runs at an impressive strike rate of 213 and took eight wickets, highlighting his dual prowess. NDTVSports.comCREX+2myKhel+2Wikipedia+2Cricbuzz
IPL Journey
In 2023, Bhandage was acquired by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for his base price of ₹30 lakhs. After spending two seasons on the bench, he made his IPL debut on April 18, 2025, against Punjab Kings at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Although his debut was brief, scoring one run, his inclusion signifies RCB’s interest in nurturing his talent for future contributions. Crictoday+3Cricbuzz+3IPL T20 Official+3NDTVSports.com
Playing Style and Strengths
Bhandage is known for his aggressive batting, particularly in the middle order, and his ability to deliver crucial overs with the ball. His left-handed batting adds variety to the lineup, while his right-arm medium-fast bowling provides strategic options during matches. His performances in domestic tournaments have demonstrated his capacity to change the game’s momentum, making him a valuable asset in the T20 format. SportskeedaIPL T20 Official
Future Prospects
At 26, Bhandage stands at the cusp of a promising cricketing career. His consistent performances in domestic cricket and recent entry into the IPL spotlight suggest a trajectory toward greater opportunities. With continued development and exposure, he has the potential to become a mainstay in both domestic and franchise cricket, and possibly earn a spot in the national team.Crictoday+3IPL T20 Official+3NDTVSports.com+3
Manoj Bhandage’s journey from Raichur’s local grounds to the grand stages of the IPL exemplifies determination and talent. As he continues to evolve as a cricketer, fans and selectors alike will be keenly watching his progress.
