Ryan Rickelton stood at the non-striker&rsquo;s end, stunned, as he watched Suryakumar Yadav pull off his trademark shot&mdash;one he has no intention of attempting himself. During Mumbai Indians' clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) 2025 at Wankhede Stadium on Monday (March 31), Suryakumar made an impact with a blistering cameo towards the end.
In a low-scoring encounter, Mumbai were set a modest target of 117 by KKR. By the time Suryakumar arrived at the crease, Rickelton had already done the heavy lifting. However, on just his second delivery of the night, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a> effortlessly showcased his signature stroke&mdash;shuffling across the stumps and scooping the ball over fine-leg for a massive six.
&ldquo;I just told Quinny (Quinton de Kock) that SKY is a joke! He does things I can&rsquo;t even dream of. He&rsquo;s played that shot multiple times, but I&rsquo;m not going to try it. I&rsquo;m just glad he&rsquo;s on our team,&rdquo; Rickelton said after the match.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-joining-sydney-sixers-in-big-bash-league-viral-social-media-post-sends-shockwaves-8913213">Virat Kohli joining Sydney Sixers in Big Bash League? Viral social media post sends shockwaves</a>
<h2>'I was lucky to get some runs'</h2>
Playing his maiden IPL season, Rickelton initially struggled to adapt to Indian conditions, managing just 13(7) and 6(9) in his first two outings. However, returning to Wankhede gave him a chance to reassess. After researching the pitch conditions, he arrived better prepared, anchoring Mumbai&rsquo;s chase with an unbeaten 62 off 41 balls&mdash;featuring the most boundaries and sixes across both teams.
&ldquo;I took my time. I just had to put bat to ball. The ball was moving around, and I was lucky to get some runs. I had been chatting with folks back in South Africa about Wankhede&mdash;how it challenges batters. But I&rsquo;m looking forward to using the pace on offer. The atmosphere was unbelievable, with the crowd turning the stadium blue. I&rsquo;m definitely going to enjoy my time here,&rdquo; he added.
Before MI&rsquo;s batters wrapped up the game, their bowlers had set the stage for an eight-wicket triumph. Debutant Ashwani Kumar dazzled on his IPL debut, dismantling KKR&rsquo;s lineup with a remarkable four-wicket haul, returning figures of 4/24. His scalps included seasoned campaigners like skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ajinkya-rahane">Ajinkya Rahane</a>, Rinku Singh, Manish Pandey, and power-hitter Andre Russell.
While Ashwani starred, Mumbai&rsquo;s other bowlers played their part in restricting KKR to a paltry 116. &ldquo;I think the bowlers executed the plans brilliantly. The conditions demanded tactical adjustments, and the spinners bowled in the right areas. Keeping such a strong team to a low score was phenomenal,&rdquo; Rickelton concluded.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: In a low-scoring encounter, MI were set a target of 117 by KKR. By the time SKY came to the crease, Rickelton had already done the heavy lifting

Ryan Rickelton stood at the non-striker’s end, stunned, as he watched Suryakumar Yadav pull off his trademark shot—one he has no intention of attempting himself. During Mumbai Indians' clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 at Wankhede Stadium on Monday (March 31), Suryakumar made an impact with a blistering cameo towards the end. In a low-scoring encounter, Mumbai were set a modest target of 117 by KKR. By the time Suryakumar arrived at the crease, Rickelton had already done the heavy lifting. However, on just his second delivery of the night, Suryakumar Yadav effortlessly showcased his signature stroke—shuffling across the stumps and scooping the ball over fine-leg for a massive six. “I just told Quinny (Quinton de Kock) that SKY is a joke! He does things I can’t even dream of. He’s played that shot multiple times, but I’m not going to try it. I’m just glad he’s on our team,” Rickelton said after the match. Also Read: Virat Kohli joining Sydney Sixers in Big Bash League? Viral social media post sends shockwaves 'I was lucky to get some runs' Playing his maiden IPL season, Rickelton initially struggled to adapt to Indian conditions, managing just 13(7) and 6(9) in his first two outings. However, returning to Wankhede gave him a chance to reassess. After researching the pitch conditions, he arrived better prepared, anchoring Mumbai’s chase with an unbeaten 62 off 41 balls—featuring the most boundaries and sixes across both teams. “I took my time. I just had to put bat to ball. The ball was moving around, and I was lucky to get some runs. I had been chatting with folks back in South Africa about Wankhede—how it challenges batters. But I’m looking forward to using the pace on offer. The atmosphere was unbelievable, with the crowd turning the stadium blue. I’m definitely going to enjoy my time here,” he added. Before MI’s batters wrapped up the game, their bowlers had set the stage for an eight-wicket triumph. Debutant Ashwani Kumar dazzled on his IPL debut, dismantling KKR’s lineup with a remarkable four-wicket haul, returning figures of 4/24. His scalps included seasoned campaigners like skipper Ajinkya Rahane, Rinku Singh, Manish Pandey, and power-hitter Andre Russell. While Ashwani starred, Mumbai’s other bowlers played their part in restricting KKR to a paltry 116. “I think the bowlers executed the plans brilliantly. The conditions demanded tactical adjustments, and the spinners bowled in the right areas. Keeping such a strong team to a low score was phenomenal,” Rickelton concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: 'SKY is a joke...' MI's Rickelton stunned by Suryakumar's trademark shot

Rohit Sharma will be 38 in about a month. He has played in Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2008 and is one of the most successful captains as well as a player with six titles (five as captain) to his name. But is he getting old to play the fastest format? Is he no more quick enough on the field? Has the time come for him to hang his boots in T20s altogether?
The Indian skipper retired from the T20Is last year after guiding the team to T20 World Cup glory in June 2024 and the IPL 2025 is the first time he played in the shortest format. The batter, who scored 0 and 8 in his first two games for Mumbai Indians, was used as an impact sub in the third match of the season for the franchise.
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ashwani-kumar-born-place-ipl-price-next-to-shoaib-akhtar-mi-sensation-ashwani-kumar-becomes-first-indian-bowler-to-achieve-this-feat-on-ipl-debut-8912544" aria-label="'Next to Shoaib Akhtar': MI sensation Ashwani Kumar becomes first Indian bowler to achieve THIS feat on IPL debut">'Next to Shoaib Akhtar': MI sensation Ashwani Kumar becomes first Indian bowler to achieve THIS feat on IPL debut</a>
Against KKR, Rohit did not come to field but batted as an impact sub - he scored only 13 runs before being dismissed and was rendered to his worst start in the IPL history since 2020 after the first three matches.
<h2>Rohit Sharma in first three games of IPL since 2020:</h2>
IPL 2020: 12, 80 and 8 IPL 2021: 19, 43 and 32 IPL 2022: 41, 10 and 3 IPL 2023: 1, 21 and 65 IPL 2024: 43, 26 and 0 IPL 2025: 0, 8 and 13
Clearly, 2025 is the worst for Rohit Sharma in terms of runs in the first three games at least as he has never gotten these many matches to get going.
In general, Rohit is going through a lean patch since the Tests matches against Bangladesh at home last year. He failed in New Zealand Tests after that and also the nightmarish Australia tour where he eventually dropped himself from the side.
In the Champions Trophy, he scored one fifty and that was in all important final but he was scratchy in rest of the tournament.&nbsp;
If Rohit doesn't find his groove quickly, the question of whether he should continue to play as a fixed member of Playing XI is bound to be asked sooner than later.

Against KKR, Rohit batted as an impact sub and he scored only 13 runs before being out and was rendered to his worst start in the IPL history since 2020 after the first three matches. Cricket Sports

Rohit Sharma will be 38 in about a month. He has played in Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2008 and is one of the most successful captains as well as a player with six titles (five as captain) to his name. But is he getting old to play the fastest format? Is he no more quick enough on the field? Has the time come for him to hang his boots in T20s altogether? The Indian skipper retired from the T20Is last year after guiding the team to T20 World Cup glory in June 2024 and the IPL 2025 is the first time he played in the shortest format. The batter, who scored 0 and 8 in his first two games for Mumbai Indians, was used as an impact sub in the third match of the season for the franchise. Also Read: 'Next to Shoaib Akhtar': MI sensation Ashwani Kumar becomes first Indian bowler to achieve THIS feat on IPL debut Against KKR, Rohit did not come to field but batted as an impact sub - he scored only 13 runs before being dismissed and was rendered to his worst start in the IPL history since 2020 after the first three matches. Rohit Sharma in first three games of IPL since 2020: IPL 2020: 12, 80 and 8 IPL 2021: 19, 43 and 32 IPL 2022: 41, 10 and 3 IPL 2023: 1, 21 and 65 IPL 2024: 43, 26 and 0 IPL 2025: 0, 8 and 13 Clearly, 2025 is the worst for Rohit Sharma in terms of runs in the first three games at least as he has never gotten these many matches to get going. In general, Rohit is going through a lean patch since the Tests matches against Bangladesh at home last year. He failed in New Zealand Tests after that and also the nightmarish Australia tour where he eventually dropped himself from the side. In the Champions Trophy, he scored one fifty and that was in all important final but he was scratchy in rest of the tournament. If Rohit doesn't find his groove quickly, the question of whether he should continue to play as a fixed member of Playing XI is bound to be asked sooner than later.

IPL 2025: Time is ticking for soon to be 38 Rohit Sharma after his worst IPL start since 2020

Mumbai Indians pacer Ashwani Kumar did nothing wrong on his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Mar 31. He also created history by registering the best figures by an Indian bowler on IPL debut. He equalled great Shoaib Akhtar and West Indies' Kevon Cooper with his four-wicket haul - the first Indian to do so on IPL debut.
Ashwani struck with his ball in the cash-rich league, dismissing KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane and then accounting for the wickets of Rinku Singh, Andre Russell and Manish Pandey as well. He finished for 4/24 in three overs - the best ever for an Indian on IPL debut.
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-hes-not-the-captain-former-eng-skipper-on-whether-mi-will-drop-rohit-amid-poor-form-8912039" aria-label="IPL 2025: 'He's not the captain,' former ENG skipper on whether MI will drop Rohit amid poor form">IPL 2025: 'He's not the captain,' former ENG skipper on whether MI will drop Rohit amid poor form</a>
Before him, there are only three more bowlers who have performed better on IPL debut, they are Alzarri Joseph from West Indies, Andrew Tye from Australia and Shoaib Akhtar from Pakistan.
Joseph, playing for MI vs SRH in 2019, took 6/12 - the best ever for any bowler on IPL debut. Aussie Tye picked up 5/17 for now defunct Gujarat Lions vs Pune Supergiant in 2017.
Akhtar, meanwhile, took 4/11 in three overs in the only season Pakistan players were allowed to play - in inaugural 2008 season while playing for KKR.
<h2>Who is Ashwani Kumar?</h2>
Ashwani belongs to Punjab state's Jhanjeri village in Mohali district and was first spotted by Mumbai Indians squad during the domestic Sher-e-Punjab T20 trophy. He gained the reputation as the bowler who could bowl the difficult slog overs. His performance impressed MI scouts enough to pick him in the mega auction. Ashwani was bought for INR 30 lakh ($35,000) from the uncapped players' pool.
As for Ashwani's domestic record, the bowler has played two first class games, four List A games and four T20s as well. In those matches, he has taken three wickets in FA, three wickets in List A and two wickets in T20s, respectively.

MI pacer Ashwani is from Jhanjeri village in Punjab's Mohali and was bough for INR 30 lakh ($35,000) at the IPL mega auction last year. Cricket Sports

Mumbai Indians pacer Ashwani Kumar did nothing wrong on his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Mar 31. He also created history by registering the best figures by an Indian bowler on IPL debut. He equalled great Shoaib Akhtar and West Indies' Kevon Cooper with his four-wicket haul - the first Indian to do so on IPL debut. Ashwani struck with his ball in the cash-rich league, dismissing KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane and then accounting for the wickets of Rinku Singh, Andre Russell and Manish Pandey as well. He finished for 4/24 in three overs - the best ever for an Indian on IPL debut. Also Read: IPL 2025: 'He's not the captain,' former ENG skipper on whether MI will drop Rohit amid poor form Before him, there are only three more bowlers who have performed better on IPL debut, they are Alzarri Joseph from West Indies, Andrew Tye from Australia and Shoaib Akhtar from Pakistan. Joseph, playing for MI vs SRH in 2019, took 6/12 - the best ever for any bowler on IPL debut. Aussie Tye picked up 5/17 for now defunct Gujarat Lions vs Pune Supergiant in 2017. Akhtar, meanwhile, took 4/11 in three overs in the only season Pakistan players were allowed to play - in inaugural 2008 season while playing for KKR. Who is Ashwani Kumar? Ashwani belongs to Punjab state's Jhanjeri village in Mohali district and was first spotted by Mumbai Indians squad during the domestic Sher-e-Punjab T20 trophy. He gained the reputation as the bowler who could bowl the difficult slog overs. His performance impressed MI scouts enough to pick him in the mega auction. Ashwani was bought for INR 30 lakh ($35,000) from the uncapped players' pool. As for Ashwani's domestic record, the bowler has played two first class games, four List A games and four T20s as well. In those matches, he has taken three wickets in FA, three wickets in List A and two wickets in T20s, respectively.

'Next to Shoaib Akhtar': MI sensation Ashwani Kumar becomes first Indian bowler to achieve THIS feat on IPL debut

Mumbai Indians batter and India skipper Rohit Sharma once again failed to make any impact with the bat as he got out on 13 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Mar 31 at Wankhede in IPL 2025. MI, however, won the game to snap their two-game losing streak but Rohit's form in the three games has everyone got talking. The former MI skipper has managed scores of 0, 8 and 13 in his last three games - not up to the mark for a batter of Rohit's calibre.
Former England skipper Michael Vaughan, meanwhile, says that any other player would lose his place with those numbers as a batter.
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-who-is-ashwani-kumar-mumbai-indians-left-arm-pacer-who-dismissed-rahane-on-first-ball-during-debut-vs-kkr-8910953" aria-label="IPL 2025: Who is Ashwani Kumar - Mumbai Indians' newest left-arm pacer who dismissed Rahane on first ball during debut vs KKR">IPL 2025: Who is Ashwani Kumar - Mumbai Indians' newest left-arm pacer who dismissed Rahane on first ball during debut vs KKR</a>
"You look at his numbers, you've got to remember, we're judging Rohit just as a batter now, because he's not the captain. Now, I think you can get away with average numbers, and they're average numbers. If your name's not Rohit Sharma, you're probably losing your place in the side at some stage with those numbers. They're not good enough for a player like Rohit Sharma," Vaughan said while talking to cricket news website Cricbuzz.
Vaughan, however, acknowledged that Rohit isn't going to be dropped from the side but instead backed to provide starts to Mumbai Indians which is required for franchise to get going in the season.
"I'm not saying that they'll get rid of him. I'm not going to drop him. Come on, get us off to a start. Get your flow back, get your rhythm back, get your mojo back. Because for Mumbai to go and put right what they've not done right in the first two games, it does require that senior core to produce," said Vaughan.
All of Rohit's dismissal have come very soft and unlike of him - in the first game he played a ball from left-hand Khaleel Ahmed of CSK directly into the hands of midwicket player.
In the next match against GT, Rohit was bowled through the gates by Mohammed Siraj before lobbing the ball to mid-off in the game vs KKR.

The former MI skipper has managed scores of 0, 8 and 13 in his last three games - not up to the mark for a batter of Rohit's calibre. Cricket Sports

Mumbai Indians batter and India skipper Rohit Sharma once again failed to make any impact with the bat as he got out on 13 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Mar 31 at Wankhede in IPL 2025. MI, however, won the game to snap their two-game losing streak but Rohit's form in the three games has everyone got talking. The former MI skipper has managed scores of 0, 8 and 13 in his last three games - not up to the mark for a batter of Rohit's calibre. Former England skipper Michael Vaughan, meanwhile, says that any other player would lose his place with those numbers as a batter. Also Read: IPL 2025: Who is Ashwani Kumar - Mumbai Indians' newest left-arm pacer who dismissed Rahane on first ball during debut vs KKR "You look at his numbers, you've got to remember, we're judging Rohit just as a batter now, because he's not the captain. Now, I think you can get away with average numbers, and they're average numbers. If your name's not Rohit Sharma, you're probably losing your place in the side at some stage with those numbers. They're not good enough for a player like Rohit Sharma," Vaughan said while talking to cricket news website Cricbuzz. Vaughan, however, acknowledged that Rohit isn't going to be dropped from the side but instead backed to provide starts to Mumbai Indians which is required for franchise to get going in the season. "I'm not saying that they'll get rid of him. I'm not going to drop him. Come on, get us off to a start. Get your flow back, get your rhythm back, get your mojo back. Because for Mumbai to go and put right what they've not done right in the first two games, it does require that senior core to produce," said Vaughan. All of Rohit's dismissal have come very soft and unlike of him - in the first game he played a ball from left-hand Khaleel Ahmed of CSK directly into the hands of midwicket player. In the next match against GT, Rohit was bowled through the gates by Mohammed Siraj before lobbing the ball to mid-off in the game vs KKR.

IPL 2025: 'He's not the captain,' former ENG skipper on whether MI will drop Rohit amid poor form

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a> credits <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> scouts for unearthing a talent like Ashwani Kumar, who made history with his four-wicket haul against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders</a> on his IPL debut. Having lost two matches already, MI needed a heroic effort from someone to put them on the winning track, with that coming by an uncapped seamer, who picked his maiden IPL wicket on the first ball of his spell, which helped Mumbai open account this edition with an eight-wicket win over KKR.
Over the years, Mumbai Indians scouts have unearthed the best of young talents, giving them chances and making the most out of them.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mi-vs-kkr-ashwani-kumar-picks-four-on-debut-rickelton-his-maiden-fifty-as-mumbai-indians-open-account-in-ipl-2025-8911216" rel="dofollow">MI vs KKR: Ashwani Kumar's four-for on debut helps Mumbai Indians open account in IPL 2025</a>
Even in their first game (against CSK) this season, MI played uncapped spinner Vignesh Puthur, who picked three wickets on his debut, though MI lost that game by four wickets. On Monday, they introduced Ashwani to world cricket, with the left-arm quick making the right noises.
Ashwani&rsquo;s four-wicket haul helped MI dismiss KKR on a paltry 116, with their batters completing the run chase with over seven overs and eight wickets remaining.&nbsp;
Addressing the media after MI&rsquo;s first win this season, captain Pandya sounded elated with the team effort, acknowledging everyone for coming on the day.
&ldquo;Very satisfying,&rdquo; Pandya said of MI&rsquo;s win over KKR.
&ldquo;To win, especially at home and the way we did it as a group - everyone chipped in, cannot be happier. It is always a challenge of picking one guy here or there.
&ldquo;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. 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,&rdquo; Pandya lauded Ashwani.&nbsp;
<h2>Russell&rsquo;s wicket impressed Pandya</h2>
Ashwani bowled well, with all of his wicket-taking deliveries deserving the highest praise; however, what stood out was his one that clean-bowled Russell.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8xdg09b-ewzbpsaz-2lg0yxh4">
Debut straight out of a storybook 📖 The perfect first chapter for Ashwani Kumar 👌👌 Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/iEwchzDRNM">https://t.co/iEwchzDRNM</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvKKR</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> <a href="https://t.co/npaynbIViX">pic.twitter.com/npaynbIViX</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1906726739490803951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;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. Early start, but a great sign for everyone to chip in and kick off the tournament for us,&rdquo; Pandya said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Mumbai Indians left-arm seamer Ashwani Kumar became the first Indian and the sixth player overall to pick a four-wicket haul on his IPL debut.

Hardik Pandya credits Mumbai Indians scouts for unearthing a talent like Ashwani Kumar, who made history with his four-wicket haul against Kolkata Knight Riders on his IPL debut. Having lost two matches already, MI needed a heroic effort from someone to put them on the winning track, with that coming by an uncapped seamer, who picked his maiden IPL wicket on the first ball of his spell, which helped Mumbai open account this edition with an eight-wicket win over KKR. Over the years, Mumbai Indians scouts have unearthed the best of young talents, giving them chances and making the most out of them. Also read | MI vs KKR: Ashwani Kumar's four-for on debut helps Mumbai Indians open account in IPL 2025 Even in their first game (against CSK) this season, MI played uncapped spinner Vignesh Puthur, who picked three wickets on his debut, though MI lost that game by four wickets. On Monday, they introduced Ashwani to world cricket, with the left-arm quick making the right noises. Ashwani’s four-wicket haul helped MI dismiss KKR on a paltry 116, with their batters completing the run chase with over seven overs and eight wickets remaining. Addressing the media after MI’s first win this season, captain Pandya sounded elated with the team effort, acknowledging everyone for coming on the day. “Very satisfying,” Pandya said of MI’s win over KKR. “To win, especially at home and the way we did it as a group - everyone chipped in, cannot be happier. It is always a challenge of picking one guy here or there. “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. 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,” Pandya lauded Ashwani. Russell’s wicket impressed Pandya Ashwani bowled well, with all of his wicket-taking deliveries deserving the highest praise; however, what stood out was his one that clean-bowled Russell. Debut straight out of a storybook 📖 The perfect first chapter for Ashwani Kumar 👌👌 Updates ▶ https://t.co/iEwchzDRNM#TATAIPL | #MIvKKR | @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/npaynbIViX — 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. Early start, but a great sign for everyone to chip in and kick off the tournament for us,” Pandya said. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Captain Pandya lauds Mumbai Indians scouts for unearthing Ashwani Kumar after win over KKR

Former five-time winners <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians-mi" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians (MI)</a> have finally opened their account in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> with a thumping eight-wicket win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)</a> on Monday at the Wankhede Stadium. New faces helped the hosts taste success for the first time in this edition, with seamer Ashwani Kumar picking a match-winning four-for on his IPL debut, and overseas opener Ryan Rickelton scored his maiden fifty for the franchise.
Mumbai won the toss and elected to bowl first, a fantastic call by captain Hardik Pandya. MI new-ball pacers picked four wickets inside the Powerplay, including one by the debutant Ashwani Kumar, who picked a wicket on his first ball in the IPL. KKR&rsquo;s top order struggled against the moving ball, with Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar causing trouble up front.&nbsp;
Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Rinku Singh tried saving the sinking ship, failing to hold on for long, as Ashwani returned to tear into KKR&rsquo;s lower order, including removing three dangerous batters in Rinku, Manish Pandey and all-rounder Andre Russell.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-who-is-ashwani-kumar-mumbai-indians-left-arm-pacer-who-dismissed-rahane-on-first-ball-during-debut-vs-kkr-8910953" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Who is Ashwani Kumar - Mumbai Indians' newest left-arm pacer who dismissed Rahane on first ball during debut vs KKR</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8xbyyv5-qvw6h7o6-74y6o8h7">
Debut straight out of a storybook 📖 The perfect first chapter for Ashwani Kumar 👌👌 Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/iEwchzDRNM">https://t.co/iEwchzDRNM</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvKKR</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> <a href="https://t.co/npaynbIViX">pic.twitter.com/npaynbIViX</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1906726739490803951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
Mitchell Santner and MI&rsquo;s rookie spinner Vignesh Puthur picked the remaining two wickets to wrap up KKR&rsquo;s innings on a mere 116 inside 17 overs.&nbsp;
"I was feeling really good. There was a little pressure earlier, but thanks to the atmosphere of the team, I didn't feel any pressure," Ashwani, 23, said during the mid-innings.&nbsp;
<h2>Rickelton, the hero with the bat</h2>
Although Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s dismal run with the bat continued as he got out early inside the Powerplay on 13, his opening partner, Ryan Rickelton, repaid his team&rsquo;s faith with a match-winning unbeaten 62 off 41 balls, including five sixes and four fours.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8xbyl3m-crz7r6dl-ift0l7nt">
The clarity in both these shots 😇 Ryan Rickelton with no half measures in the chase 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MI</a> lose Rohit Sharma and are 55/1 after 6 overs. Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/iEwchzEpDk">https://t.co/iEwchzEpDk</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvKKR</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> <a href="https://t.co/3keQ745xn2">pic.twitter.com/3keQ745xn2</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1906743650773790793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
The left-handed opener finally came good for the franchise after moderate outings in his previous two matches.&nbsp;
His 46-run stand with Rohit had Mumbai going; however, Will Jacks providing support at the other end following Rohit&rsquo;s departure allowed Ryan to free his arms and take on KKR&rsquo;s bowling attack. His two sixes to veteran spinner Sunil Narine was the highlight.&nbsp;
Ace T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav put on the final touches, hitting an unbeaten 27 off nine balls, including two sixes and three fours; Mumbai completed the chase with over seven overs and eight wickets remaining. &nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8xbyaan-4iaaayau-6wedft9q">
𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗸𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 😎 Trademark way to get off the mark ✅<a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> cruising in the chase 🛳️ Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/iEwchzEpDk">https://t.co/iEwchzEpDk</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvKKR</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ag46xegPOW">pic.twitter.com/Ag46xegPOW</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1906751215112954250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2025</a></blockquote>

Cricket, Sports: Playing his first IPL game, Ashwani picked his maiden wicket on the first ball of his spell, later picking three more to complete 4/24 in 3 overs.

Former five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) have finally opened their account in the ongoing IPL 2025 with a thumping eight-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday at the Wankhede Stadium. New faces helped the hosts taste success for the first time in this edition, with seamer Ashwani Kumar picking a match-winning four-for on his IPL debut, and overseas opener Ryan Rickelton scored his maiden fifty for the franchise. Mumbai won the toss and elected to bowl first, a fantastic call by captain Hardik Pandya. MI new-ball pacers picked four wickets inside the Powerplay, including one by the debutant Ashwani Kumar, who picked a wicket on his first ball in the IPL. KKR’s top order struggled against the moving ball, with Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar causing trouble up front. Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Rinku Singh tried saving the sinking ship, failing to hold on for long, as Ashwani returned to tear into KKR’s lower order, including removing three dangerous batters in Rinku, Manish Pandey and all-rounder Andre Russell. Also read | IPL 2025: Who is Ashwani Kumar - Mumbai Indians' newest left-arm pacer who dismissed Rahane on first ball during debut vs KKR Debut straight out of a storybook 📖 The perfect first chapter for Ashwani Kumar 👌👌 Updates ▶ https://t.co/iEwchzDRNM#TATAIPL | #MIvKKR | @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/npaynbIViX — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2025 Mitchell Santner and MI’s rookie spinner Vignesh Puthur picked the remaining two wickets to wrap up KKR’s innings on a mere 116 inside 17 overs. "I was feeling really good. There was a little pressure earlier, but thanks to the atmosphere of the team, I didn't feel any pressure," Ashwani, 23, said during the mid-innings. Rickelton, the hero with the bat Although Rohit Sharma’s dismal run with the bat continued as he got out early inside the Powerplay on 13, his opening partner, Ryan Rickelton, repaid his team’s faith with a match-winning unbeaten 62 off 41 balls, including five sixes and four fours. The clarity in both these shots 😇 Ryan Rickelton with no half measures in the chase 💪#MI lose Rohit Sharma and are 55/1 after 6 overs. Updates ▶ https://t.co/iEwchzEpDk#TATAIPL | #MIvKKR | @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/3keQ745xn2 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2025 The left-handed opener finally came good for the franchise after moderate outings in his previous two matches. His 46-run stand with Rohit had Mumbai going; however, Will Jacks providing support at the other end following Rohit’s departure allowed Ryan to free his arms and take on KKR’s bowling attack. His two sixes to veteran spinner Sunil Narine was the highlight. Ace T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav put on the final touches, hitting an unbeaten 27 off nine balls, including two sixes and three fours; Mumbai completed the chase with over seven overs and eight wickets remaining. 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗸𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 😎 Trademark way to get off the mark ✅@mipaltan cruising in the chase 🛳️ Updates ▶ https://t.co/iEwchzEpDk#TATAIPL | #MIvKKR | @surya_14kumar pic.twitter.com/Ag46xegPOW — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 31, 2025

MI vs KKR: Ashwani Kumar's four-for on debut helps Mumbai Indians open account in IPL 2025

Mumbai Indians are always known to unearth hidden cricketing talents across the country with the most famous being Hardik Pandya who know captains the side in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In their first match of the IPL 2025 season, the unlashed Vignesh Puthur - an unorthodox left-arm spinner from Kerala who impressed on the debut.
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-locked-box-given-to-lsg-owner-srh-call-out-hyderabad-cricket-association-chief-for-blackmail-coercion-8910692" aria-label="IPL 2025: 'Locked box given to LSG owner': SRH call out Hyderabad Cricket Association chief for blackmail, coercion">IPL 2025: 'Locked box given to LSG owner': SRH call out Hyderabad Cricket Association chief for blackmail, coercion</a>
During their first home game of the season against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (Mar 31), they unleashed left-arm pacer Ashwani Kumar. The pacer impressed right away and dismissed KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane on the very first ball of his IPL career.
<h2>Who Is Ashwani Kumar?</h2>
Ashwani belongs to Punjab state and was first spotted by Mumbai Indians squad during the domestic Sher-e-Punjab T20 trophy. He gained the reputation as the bowler who could bowl the difficult slog overs. His performance impressed MI scouts enough to pick him in the mega auction. Ashwani was bought for INR 30 lakh ($35,000) from the uncapped players' pool.
As for Ashwani's domestic record, the bowler has played two first class games, four List A games and four T20s as well. In those matches, he has taken three wickets in FA, three wickets in List A and two wickets in T20s, respectively.
In the match against KKR, Ashwani, after dismissing Rahane, clean bowled Manish Pandey on a peach of a inswinging delivery which hit the top of batter's leg stump and dislodged the bail.
The pacer eventually finished with 4/24 in three wickets - accounting for wickets of Rinku Singh and Andre Russell as well. Thanks to his spell, Mumbai Indians bowled out KKR for 116 inside 20 overs.
Apart from Ashwani, Deepak Chahar picked up two wickets while Trent Boult, Pandya, Puthur and Mitchell Santner picked one each.

Ashwani Kumar belongs to Punjab state and was first spotted by Mumbai Indians squad during the domestic Sher-e-Punjab T20 trophy. Cricket Sports

Mumbai Indians are always known to unearth hidden cricketing talents across the country with the most famous being Hardik Pandya who know captains the side in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In their first match of the IPL 2025 season, the unlashed Vignesh Puthur - an unorthodox left-arm spinner from Kerala who impressed on the debut. Also Read: IPL 2025: 'Locked box given to LSG owner': SRH call out Hyderabad Cricket Association chief for blackmail, coercion During their first home game of the season against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (Mar 31), they unleashed left-arm pacer Ashwani Kumar. The pacer impressed right away and dismissed KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane on the very first ball of his IPL career. Who Is Ashwani Kumar? Ashwani belongs to Punjab state and was first spotted by Mumbai Indians squad during the domestic Sher-e-Punjab T20 trophy. He gained the reputation as the bowler who could bowl the difficult slog overs. His performance impressed MI scouts enough to pick him in the mega auction. Ashwani was bought for INR 30 lakh ($35,000) from the uncapped players' pool. As for Ashwani's domestic record, the bowler has played two first class games, four List A games and four T20s as well. In those matches, he has taken three wickets in FA, three wickets in List A and two wickets in T20s, respectively. In the match against KKR, Ashwani, after dismissing Rahane, clean bowled Manish Pandey on a peach of a inswinging delivery which hit the top of batter's leg stump and dislodged the bail. The pacer eventually finished with 4/24 in three wickets - accounting for wickets of Rinku Singh and Andre Russell as well. Thanks to his spell, Mumbai Indians bowled out KKR for 116 inside 20 overs. Apart from Ashwani, Deepak Chahar picked up two wickets while Trent Boult, Pandya, Puthur and Mitchell Santner picked one each.

IPL 2025: Who is Ashwani Kumar - Mumbai Indians' newest left-arm pacer who dismissed Rahane on first ball during debut vs KKR

Ace India seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a> has endured enough injuries and pain in his glorious career; as things stand, he is preparing to return to competitive cricket after suffering a back spasm during the BGT Down Under in January 2025. Shane Bond, the former New Zealand pacer who worked with Bumrah at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> in the IPL, reflected on his back issue, saying India over bowled him against Australia, and should they not learn from past mistakes, Bumrah&rsquo;s career is the price they will pay for it.
Back issues have troubled Bumrah since he emerged (on the cricket scene), cutting on his regular appearances for Team India across formats. Bumrah&rsquo;s risky action, coupled with his excessive workload, has kept him away from on-field cricket for a prolonged period, so much so that when he suffered the same injury back in 2023, he missed a major chunk of the year recovering from it and another quarter to get back to bowling full throttles.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-riyan-parag-throws-phone-attitude-to-ground-staff-fans-slam-rr-captain-for-rude-behaviour-watch-8910359" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Riyan Parag throws phone, attitude to ground staff, fans slam RR captain for &lsquo;rude behaviour&rsquo; &ndash; WATCH</a>
Although India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in his absence, they&rsquo;d need him for the away England Tests later this year; however, Bond sent warning signs for the skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir to utilise his services properly to avoid him suffering a stress fracture in his back, which is on the borderline.
&ldquo;I don't think so,&rdquo; Bond said on whether Bumrah should change his bowling action to preserve his career.&nbsp;
&ldquo;He had the [2023] surgery, but he played all that [Australia] Test series, performed unbelievably. At the end of the day, he just bowled too much over a one-month period. And it hasn't cracked, he hasn't got a fracture, he is on the borderline of a fracture,&rdquo; Bond said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;
&ldquo;But what India would have learned is, if you then look at a five-Test match series in England and they do the same thing, they are probably going to get the same result. So you can't do that. You need a squad of bowlers where you can sort of pick and choose.&nbsp;Because if you lose him, you have got T20 World Cups, you've got 50-overs World Cups, and he's an important member across all formats, IPL, all that sort of stuff,&rdquo; Bond continued.
<h2>Too many overs broke Bumrah&rsquo;s back</h2>
Bumrah captained India in two Tests on its last tour Down Under, winning one (in Perth) and leaving the field midway in his second (at the final Test in Sydney). Though he was the standout bowler, picking 32 wickets from five Tests &ndash; the most by an Indian bowler on Australian soil, Bumrah paid the price for sending down a sheer volume of overs (151.2) that eventually broke his back.
"In Australia, it was just the sheer volume of overs that got him in the end - in those five Test matches, his performance was ridiculous, and they leaned on him a lot, and I think he might've bowled 50 overs in a Test match. You are not going to avoid an injury, you are just trying to avoid the really bad ones, and I'm hoping Bumrah can avoid another one of these," Bond said.
Meanwhile, Bumrah would re-link with the Mumbai Indians squad sometime in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Currently, Jasprit Bumrah is preparing to return to competitive cricket after suffering a back spasm during the BGT Down Under in January 2025.

Ace India seamer Jasprit Bumrah has endured enough injuries and pain in his glorious career; as things stand, he is preparing to return to competitive cricket after suffering a back spasm during the BGT Down Under in January 2025. Shane Bond, the former New Zealand pacer who worked with Bumrah at Mumbai Indians in the IPL, reflected on his back issue, saying India over bowled him against Australia, and should they not learn from past mistakes, Bumrah’s career is the price they will pay for it. Back issues have troubled Bumrah since he emerged (on the cricket scene), cutting on his regular appearances for Team India across formats. Bumrah’s risky action, coupled with his excessive workload, has kept him away from on-field cricket for a prolonged period, so much so that when he suffered the same injury back in 2023, he missed a major chunk of the year recovering from it and another quarter to get back to bowling full throttles. Also read | IPL 2025: Riyan Parag throws phone, attitude to ground staff, fans slam RR captain for ‘rude behaviour’ – WATCH Although India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in his absence, they’d need him for the away England Tests later this year; however, Bond sent warning signs for the skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir to utilise his services properly to avoid him suffering a stress fracture in his back, which is on the borderline. “I don't think so,” Bond said on whether Bumrah should change his bowling action to preserve his career. “He had the [2023] surgery, but he played all that [Australia] Test series, performed unbelievably. At the end of the day, he just bowled too much over a one-month period. And it hasn't cracked, he hasn't got a fracture, he is on the borderline of a fracture,” Bond said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. “But what India would have learned is, if you then look at a five-Test match series in England and they do the same thing, they are probably going to get the same result. So you can't do that. You need a squad of bowlers where you can sort of pick and choose. Because if you lose him, you have got T20 World Cups, you've got 50-overs World Cups, and he's an important member across all formats, IPL, all that sort of stuff,” Bond continued. Too many overs broke Bumrah’s back Bumrah captained India in two Tests on its last tour Down Under, winning one (in Perth) and leaving the field midway in his second (at the final Test in Sydney). Though he was the standout bowler, picking 32 wickets from five Tests – the most by an Indian bowler on Australian soil, Bumrah paid the price for sending down a sheer volume of overs (151.2) that eventually broke his back. "In Australia, it was just the sheer volume of overs that got him in the end - in those five Test matches, his performance was ridiculous, and they leaned on him a lot, and I think he might've bowled 50 overs in a Test match. You are not going to avoid an injury, you are just trying to avoid the really bad ones, and I'm hoping Bumrah can avoid another one of these," Bond said. Meanwhile, Bumrah would re-link with the Mumbai Indians squad sometime in IPL 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Bumrah’s future is the price Team India will pay should they not learn from past mistakes, says Shane Bond

After 10 days of cricket in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Mumbai Indians remain the only team to open their account. MI have lost both their matches so far in the league as they face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (Mar 31) at Wankhede stadium.
KKR, who are the defending champions, have 50-50 record in the two games played so far and would be hoping to build on the momentum against a struggling Mumbai Indians side.
<h2>MI vs KKR, Today match prediction:</h2>
Last season, Mumbai won the toss five times at Wankhede but managed to win only two games as they chased in all of those games. They scored 32 runs on an average for each wicket with a highest of 199.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-doesnt-make-sense-says-india-batter-on-srh-hard-hitting-batting-style-after-two-consecutive-losses-8909239" aria-label="IPL 2025: 'Doesn't make sense', says India batter on SRH's hard-hitting batting style after two consecutive losses">IPL 2025: 'Doesn't make sense', says India batter on SRH's hard-hitting batting style after two consecutive losses</a>
A year before that, in 2023, they had the best averages runs per wicket in a season at Wankhede - 46 - as they won three out of four games after winning the toss and electing to bowl.
So it seems safe to say that they'll be choosing to bowl first at their home ground if they win the toss and back themselves to chase the target.
Wankhede also has shorter boundaries and a high-scoring fest is pretty much on the cards but Mumbai would be hoping for their batters to join the part soon as asked by their skipper Hardik Pandya after the last loss.
KKR, on the other hand, snapped their losing streak at Wankhede last season when they won the match by 24 runs. Before the win last season, KKR had not won a game at Wankhede since 2016.
KKR have poor record in both batting and fielding first at Wankhede - they have lost eight out of 10 games while batting first but managed slightly better with fielding first - losing four and winning three matches.
If won the loss, they'd hopefully go with batting second while MI might do that same as they have won 24 games while batting first and 27 while batting second.

MI vs KKR, Today match prediction: MI have lost both their matches so far in the league as they face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (Mar 31) at Wankhede stadium. Cricket Sports

After 10 days of cricket in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Mumbai Indians remain the only team to open their account. MI have lost both their matches so far in the league as they face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Monday (Mar 31) at Wankhede stadium. KKR, who are the defending champions, have 50-50 record in the two games played so far and would be hoping to build on the momentum against a struggling Mumbai Indians side. MI vs KKR, Today match prediction: Last season, Mumbai won the toss five times at Wankhede but managed to win only two games as they chased in all of those games. They scored 32 runs on an average for each wicket with a highest of 199. Also Read: IPL 2025: 'Doesn't make sense', says India batter on SRH's hard-hitting batting style after two consecutive losses A year before that, in 2023, they had the best averages runs per wicket in a season at Wankhede - 46 - as they won three out of four games after winning the toss and electing to bowl. So it seems safe to say that they'll be choosing to bowl first at their home ground if they win the toss and back themselves to chase the target. Wankhede also has shorter boundaries and a high-scoring fest is pretty much on the cards but Mumbai would be hoping for their batters to join the part soon as asked by their skipper Hardik Pandya after the last loss. KKR, on the other hand, snapped their losing streak at Wankhede last season when they won the match by 24 runs. Before the win last season, KKR had not won a game at Wankhede since 2016. KKR have poor record in both batting and fielding first at Wankhede - they have lost eight out of 10 games while batting first but managed slightly better with fielding first - losing four and winning three matches. If won the loss, they'd hopefully go with batting second while MI might do that same as they have won 24 games while batting first and 27 while batting second.

IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders - Match Prediction

India ODI captain and Mumbai Indians veteran <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> is going through a rough phase while looking like a pale shadow of himself, reckons cricketer-turned-broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar.
After failing in the side&rsquo;s tournament opener against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where he got out on a four-ball duck, Rohit failed against Gujarat Titans (GT) in the next match, getting out inside the first over. Though he hit two good-looking shots for fours on the leg side, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-rohit-sharma-left-stunned-as-mohammed-siraj-sends-him-packing-with-a-beauty-watch-8905616" rel="dofollow">he failed to put bat to the ball to an incoming delivery from Mohammed Siraj</a>, who clean bowled him on eight - his 80th single-digit dismissal in the cash-rich league.&nbsp;
Watching him struggle against the moving ball time and again, Manjrekar feels Rohit is no more the Rohit of four or five years ago, as he has to put in extra yards every time to be among the runs.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-delhi-capitals-mitchell-starc-floors-srh-with-five-for-but-its-his-aussie-teammates-catch-that-stunned-all-watch-jake-fraser-mcgurk-8907196" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Starc floors SRH with five-for but it&rsquo;s his Aussie teammate&rsquo;s catch that stunned all &ndash; WATCH</a>
"Rohit Sharma is clearly going through a phase," Manjrekar said on JioStar after MI&rsquo;s second loss of the season. "He's not the Rohit Sharma of, say, three to four years ago. He's at a stage in his career where he has to push himself every morning - train hard and be at his best - because things are slipping away for him. He's still relying on his natural talent and instincts."
Rohit endured a lean patch in international cricket the past season. Since the home season began, he failed to find his touch, scoring just one fifty (52) throughout (against Bangladesh in September). While his lowest came against New Zealand during the home Test series, where India got whitewashed for the first time in history, Rohit&rsquo;s batting slump continued making headlines Down Under, where he scored just 31 runs in five innings.&nbsp;
Despite changing positions, he failed to get going, leading to him sitting out of the fifth and final Test in Sydney, which India lost within three days and conceded the BGT for the first time in a decade.
Though Rohit hit an ODI hundred against England in the lead-up to the first showpiece event of the year, his best came against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final, wherein he scored a match-winning 76.
<h2>Manjrekar digs deep into MI&rsquo;s loopholes</h2>
Explaining what went wrong for the former five-time winners who lost the second match by 36 runs, Manjrekar said they never looked comfortable in the chase after losing two wickets inside the Powerplay, even comparing it to how GT maximised their momentum in the first innings.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-australia-confirms-bumper-home-season-with-india-south-africa-white-ball-series-check-full-schedule-8906875" rel="dofollow">Cricket Australia confirms bumper home season with India, South Africa white-ball series, check full schedule</a>
&ldquo;Mumbai Indians didn't look in the race when they lost two wickets for 35 [against GT]. In comparison, Gujarat Titans had around 129 runs for their first two wickets. After that, it seemed like Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav were trying to build a partnership.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The challenge with building a partnership in a chase of over 190 is that the required run rate starts to suffer, and that's exactly what happened. In the end, you have to say that Gujarat Titans batted better - I thought they got maybe 15 to 20 runs over par,&rdquo; Manjrekar explained.
Meanwhile, Mumbai lost both contested games this season, with their next scheduled against the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at home on Monday (Mar 31).&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: After failing against CSK, where Rohit Sharma got out on a four-ball duck, he failed against GT, getting out inside the first over.

India ODI captain and Mumbai Indians veteran Rohit Sharma is going through a rough phase while looking like a pale shadow of himself, reckons cricketer-turned-broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar. After failing in the side’s tournament opener against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where he got out on a four-ball duck, Rohit failed against Gujarat Titans (GT) in the next match, getting out inside the first over. Though he hit two good-looking shots for fours on the leg side, he failed to put bat to the ball to an incoming delivery from Mohammed Siraj, who clean bowled him on eight - his 80th single-digit dismissal in the cash-rich league. Watching him struggle against the moving ball time and again, Manjrekar feels Rohit is no more the Rohit of four or five years ago, as he has to put in extra yards every time to be among the runs. Also read | IPL 2025: Starc floors SRH with five-for but it’s his Aussie teammate’s catch that stunned all – WATCH "Rohit Sharma is clearly going through a phase," Manjrekar said on JioStar after MI’s second loss of the season. "He's not the Rohit Sharma of, say, three to four years ago. He's at a stage in his career where he has to push himself every morning - train hard and be at his best - because things are slipping away for him. He's still relying on his natural talent and instincts." Rohit endured a lean patch in international cricket the past season. Since the home season began, he failed to find his touch, scoring just one fifty (52) throughout (against Bangladesh in September). While his lowest came against New Zealand during the home Test series, where India got whitewashed for the first time in history, Rohit’s batting slump continued making headlines Down Under, where he scored just 31 runs in five innings. Despite changing positions, he failed to get going, leading to him sitting out of the fifth and final Test in Sydney, which India lost within three days and conceded the BGT for the first time in a decade. Though Rohit hit an ODI hundred against England in the lead-up to the first showpiece event of the year, his best came against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final, wherein he scored a match-winning 76. Manjrekar digs deep into MI’s loopholes Explaining what went wrong for the former five-time winners who lost the second match by 36 runs, Manjrekar said they never looked comfortable in the chase after losing two wickets inside the Powerplay, even comparing it to how GT maximised their momentum in the first innings. Also read | Cricket Australia confirms bumper home season with India, South Africa white-ball series, check full schedule “Mumbai Indians didn't look in the race when they lost two wickets for 35 [against GT]. In comparison, Gujarat Titans had around 129 runs for their first two wickets. After that, it seemed like Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav were trying to build a partnership. “The challenge with building a partnership in a chase of over 190 is that the required run rate starts to suffer, and that's exactly what happened. In the end, you have to say that Gujarat Titans batted better - I thought they got maybe 15 to 20 runs over par,” Manjrekar explained. Meanwhile, Mumbai lost both contested games this season, with their next scheduled against the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at home on Monday (Mar 31). (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: ‘He’s not the Rohit Sharma of…,’ Sanjay Manjrekar comments on MI veteran’s batting lapse

Mumbai Indians skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> has been fined $14,000 for maintaining a slow over rate during their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">IPL</a> 2025 match against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday (March 29).
Mumbai Indians, five-time IPL champions, suffered a 36-run loss to Gujarat Titans on Saturday. The IPL issued a statement confirming the penalty, saying, "Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been fined after his team maintained a slow over rate during Match No. 9 of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-srhs-spin-bowling-coach-muralitharan-on-breaching-mount-300-two-batters-need-to-fire-8905703">IPL 2025 | SRH's spin bowling coach Muralitharan on breaching Mount 300: &lsquo;Two batters need to fire&rsquo;</a>
Since this was MI's first slow over-rate offence of the season under Article 2.2 of the IPL's Code of Conduct, which deals with minimum over-rate violations, Pandya was handed a $14,000 fine.
<h2 data-start="576" data-end="770">Gavaskar fumes at 'terrible' Mumbai Indians</h2>
Batting first on a black-soil pitch, Gujarat Titans posted 196 runs. MI struggled in response, finishing at 160/6, handing Gujarat their first win of the season. This marked MI&rsquo;s second consecutive defeat, leaving them still searching for their first points in IPL 2025.
Mumbai Indians' bowling unit had a tough outing but managed to restrict GT under 200. However, fielding lapses cost them dearly. One such instance saw an overthrow result in five extra runs. The incident occurred when Sai Sudharsan pulled a delivery from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/deepak-chahar">Deepak Chahar</a>. Fielder Naman Dhir aimed for a run-out at the non-striker&rsquo;s end, but his throw missed the stumps and, with no backup, the ball raced to the boundary.
The blunder left former India cricketer and commentator Sunil Gavaskar unimpressed. Speaking on the incident, he said, "That's absolutely terrible cricket. No wonder Deepak Chahar is not happy. Those five runs go against his name!"
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Since this was MI's first slow over-rate offence of the season under Article 2.2 of the IPL's Code of Conduct, Hardik Pandya was handed a $14,000 fine

Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya has been fined $14,000 for maintaining a slow over rate during their IPL 2025 match against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday (March 29). Mumbai Indians, five-time IPL champions, suffered a 36-run loss to Gujarat Titans on Saturday. The IPL issued a statement confirming the penalty, saying, "Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has been fined after his team maintained a slow over rate during Match No. 9 of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad." Also Read: IPL 2025 | SRH's spin bowling coach Muralitharan on breaching Mount 300: ‘Two batters need to fire’ Since this was MI's first slow over-rate offence of the season under Article 2.2 of the IPL's Code of Conduct, which deals with minimum over-rate violations, Pandya was handed a $14,000 fine. Gavaskar fumes at 'terrible' Mumbai Indians Batting first on a black-soil pitch, Gujarat Titans posted 196 runs. MI struggled in response, finishing at 160/6, handing Gujarat their first win of the season. This marked MI’s second consecutive defeat, leaving them still searching for their first points in IPL 2025. Mumbai Indians' bowling unit had a tough outing but managed to restrict GT under 200. However, fielding lapses cost them dearly. One such instance saw an overthrow result in five extra runs. The incident occurred when Sai Sudharsan pulled a delivery from Deepak Chahar. Fielder Naman Dhir aimed for a run-out at the non-striker’s end, but his throw missed the stumps and, with no backup, the ball raced to the boundary. The blunder left former India cricketer and commentator Sunil Gavaskar unimpressed. Speaking on the incident, he said, "That's absolutely terrible cricket. No wonder Deepak Chahar is not happy. Those five runs go against his name!" (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya fined $14K for slow over rate

Mumbai Indians&rsquo; star batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a> had a terrifying moment during an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">IPL</a> 2025 match against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gujarat-titans">Gujarat Titans</a> when he was struck on the helmet by a rising delivery. The impact was so severe that he immediately fell flat on the ground, leaving players and fans in shock.
The incident occurred when Suryakumar attempted to play a short-pitched ball but misjudged its trajectory. The ball struck him hard on the helmet, causing him to collapse. The stadium fell silent as medical personnel rushed onto the field to assess his condition. Fortunately, after initial treatment, he was able to get back on his feet, though he looked visibly shaken.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-rohit-sharma-left-stunned-as-mohammed-siraj-sends-him-packing-with-a-beauty-watch-8905616">IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma left stunned as Mohammed Siraj sends him packing with a beauty- WATCH</a>
Cameras captured his wife, Devisha Shetty, in the stands, looking extremely anxious. Her worried expression quickly went viral on social media, with fans expressing their concern for the MI batter. Many took to social media to wish him a speedy recovery, while some praised his resilience.
<h2 data-start="817" data-end="1108">Watch the video here:</h2>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
On field / On Road "𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐒" save lives..‼️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SafetyFirst?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SafetyFirst</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoadSafety?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoadSafety</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvsGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvsGT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SuryakumarYadav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SuryakumarYadav</a> <a href="https://t.co/ApYuJQyx4X">pic.twitter.com/ApYuJQyx4X</a>
&mdash; HUBBALLI DHARWAD CITY POLICE (@compolhdc) <a href="https://twitter.com/compolhdc/status/1906046139679596974?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Despite the scary moment, Suryakumar showed great determination and continued his innings after passing the concussion test.
Coming to the match, MI won the toss and opted to bowl first. GT openers Shubman Gill (38 in 27 balls, with four boundaries and a six) and Sai Sudarshan put the team to a fine start with a 78-run stand. Another half-century stand came between Sudarshan and Jos Buttler (39 in 24 balls). Sudarshan played a solid knock of 63 in 41 balls. From 179/4, GT suffered a mini-collapse towards the end as they were restricted to 196/8 in 20 overs.
In the run chase of 197 runs, MI lost Rohit Sharma (8) and Ryan Rickelton early. However, Tilak Varma (39 in 36 balls) and Suryakumar Yadav (48 in 28 balls) tried fighting it out for MI with a 62-run stand. Following their dismissal, MI lost their way and were restricted to 160/6 in 20 overs.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: The incident occurred when SKY attempted to play a short-pitched ball but misjudged its trajectory. The ball struck him on helmet, causing him to fall

Mumbai Indians’ star batter Suryakumar Yadav had a terrifying moment during an IPL 2025 match against Gujarat Titans when he was struck on the helmet by a rising delivery. The impact was so severe that he immediately fell flat on the ground, leaving players and fans in shock. The incident occurred when Suryakumar attempted to play a short-pitched ball but misjudged its trajectory. The ball struck him hard on the helmet, causing him to collapse. The stadium fell silent as medical personnel rushed onto the field to assess his condition. Fortunately, after initial treatment, he was able to get back on his feet, though he looked visibly shaken. Also Read: IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma left stunned as Mohammed Siraj sends him packing with a beauty- WATCH Cameras captured his wife, Devisha Shetty, in the stands, looking extremely anxious. Her worried expression quickly went viral on social media, with fans expressing their concern for the MI batter. Many took to social media to wish him a speedy recovery, while some praised his resilience. Watch the video here: On field / On Road "𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐒" save lives..‼️#SafetyFirst #RoadSafety #Cricket #IPL #IPL2025 #MIvsGT #SuryakumarYadav pic.twitter.com/ApYuJQyx4X — HUBBALLI DHARWAD CITY POLICE (@compolhdc) March 29, 2025 Despite the scary moment, Suryakumar showed great determination and continued his innings after passing the concussion test. Coming to the match, MI won the toss and opted to bowl first. GT openers Shubman Gill (38 in 27 balls, with four boundaries and a six) and Sai Sudarshan put the team to a fine start with a 78-run stand. Another half-century stand came between Sudarshan and Jos Buttler (39 in 24 balls). Sudarshan played a solid knock of 63 in 41 balls. From 179/4, GT suffered a mini-collapse towards the end as they were restricted to 196/8 in 20 overs. In the run chase of 197 runs, MI lost Rohit Sharma (8) and Ryan Rickelton early. However, Tilak Varma (39 in 36 balls) and Suryakumar Yadav (48 in 28 balls) tried fighting it out for MI with a 62-run stand. Following their dismissal, MI lost their way and were restricted to 160/6 in 20 overs. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 |  Terrifying moment: Suryakumar Yadav struck on helmet, falls flat; wife Devisha’s concern goes viral-WATCH

Gujarat Titans' pace sensation <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-siraj">Mohammed Siraj</a> delivered a breathtaking performance against Mumbai Indians in the 9th match of IPL 2025 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The right-arm pacer made an immediate impact, striking in his very first over with a stunning in-swinging delivery that sent MI opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>&rsquo;s stumps flying. The delivery was so precise and unplayable that even Rohit was left in disbelief.
Siraj began the over with a dot ball before Rohit responded with back-to-back boundaries. However, the pacer quickly turned the tables, dismissing the MI veteran in spectacular fashion.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-gujarat-titans-skipper-shubman-gill-reveals-strategy-behind-black-soil-pitch-after-win-over-mi-8905589">IPL 2025: Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill reveals strategy behind 'black soil pitch' after win over MI</a>
Rohit has endured a rough start to IPL 2025, having been dismissed for a duck in the opening game and now registering another low score against GT.
Despite his recent struggles, Rohit remains a stalwart of Mumbai Indians. Reflecting on his 15-year journey with the franchise, the former MI captain spoke about the evolution of the team and his role within it. Though his batting position and leadership status have changed, his mindset and dedication to MI&rsquo;s success remain unchanged.
<h2>Watch the video here:</h2>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
4, 4, 𝐖 💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MohammedSiraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MohammedSiraj</a> dismissed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> for the first time in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20s?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20s</a> &amp; what a way to do it! Watch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/VU1zRx9cWp">https://t.co/VU1zRx9cWp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GTvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GTvMI</a> | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, &amp; JioHotstar! <a href="https://t.co/x2mnv2YWUI">pic.twitter.com/x2mnv2YWUI</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1906019859361927331?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2025</a></blockquote>

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"Things have obviously changed&mdash;earlier I batted in the middle order, now I open. I was the captain, and now I am not. Some of my former teammates are now in coaching roles. But my mindset remains the same," Rohit shared in a video posted by Mumbai Indians on their X handle.
He reaffirmed his commitment to MI&rsquo;s winning culture, saying, "What I want to do for this team has not changed&mdash;it's about winning games and trophies. MI has a legacy of turning impossible situations into victories, and that remains our identity."
Rohit also spoke fondly of MI&rsquo;s consistency over the years, from the welcoming atmosphere to the unchanged traditions. "From the moment you arrive, everything is the same&mdash;your kit, your jersey, and the warmth of the people. That&rsquo;s something special about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians">Mumbai Indians</a>, and it should never change."
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Siraj made an immediate impact, striking in his very first over with a stunning in-swinging delivery that sent MI opener Rohit Sharma’s stumps flying

Gujarat Titans' pace sensation Mohammed Siraj delivered a breathtaking performance against Mumbai Indians in the 9th match of IPL 2025 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The right-arm pacer made an immediate impact, striking in his very first over with a stunning in-swinging delivery that sent MI opener Rohit Sharma’s stumps flying. The delivery was so precise and unplayable that even Rohit was left in disbelief. Siraj began the over with a dot ball before Rohit responded with back-to-back boundaries. However, the pacer quickly turned the tables, dismissing the MI veteran in spectacular fashion. Also Read: IPL 2025: Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill reveals strategy behind 'black soil pitch' after win over MI Rohit has endured a rough start to IPL 2025, having been dismissed for a duck in the opening game and now registering another low score against GT. Despite his recent struggles, Rohit remains a stalwart of Mumbai Indians. Reflecting on his 15-year journey with the franchise, the former MI captain spoke about the evolution of the team and his role within it. Though his batting position and leadership status have changed, his mindset and dedication to MI’s success remain unchanged. Watch the video here: 4, 4, 𝐖 💥#MohammedSiraj dismissed #RohitSharma for the first time in #T20s & what a way to do it! Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/VU1zRx9cWp #IPLonJioStar 👉 #GTvMI | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/x2mnv2YWUI — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 29, 2025 "Things have obviously changed—earlier I batted in the middle order, now I open. I was the captain, and now I am not. Some of my former teammates are now in coaching roles. But my mindset remains the same," Rohit shared in a video posted by Mumbai Indians on their X handle. He reaffirmed his commitment to MI’s winning culture, saying, "What I want to do for this team has not changed—it's about winning games and trophies. MI has a legacy of turning impossible situations into victories, and that remains our identity." Rohit also spoke fondly of MI’s consistency over the years, from the welcoming atmosphere to the unchanged traditions. "From the moment you arrive, everything is the same—your kit, your jersey, and the warmth of the people. That’s something special about Mumbai Indians, and it should never change." (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma left stunned as Mohammed Siraj sends him packing with a beauty- WATCH

Following Gujarat Titans' (GT) victory over Mumbai Indians (MI), skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a> shared insights into his team's decision to play on a black soil pitch. He explained that batting second on such surfaces becomes challenging once the ball gets old, making it harder for batters to clear boundaries.
GT clinched a 36-run win at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, with standout performances from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/prasidh-krishna">Prasidh Krishna</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-siraj">Mohammed Siraj</a> in the bowling department, while Sai Sudharsan contributed a crucial half-century. With this win, GT added two points to their tally and continued their perfect record of 4-0 against MI at Ahmedabad, improving their overall head-to-head to 4-2.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-updated-points-table-indian-premier-league-rankings-standings-net-run-rate-8888780">'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details</a>
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Gill said, "The decision to play on black soil was made before the first match. This wicket suits us well. Once the ball gets old, clearing boundaries becomes tough, so we aimed to maximise the powerplay. Plans don&rsquo;t always go as expected, but today they worked in our favor. I kept Rashid (Khan) for the end, but since the pacers were doing well, I decided to stick with them. Prasidh was bowling exceptionally, so we capitalised on that momentum."
<h2 data-start="1234" data-end="1726">Sai Sudarshan shines for Guajrat</h2>
Coming to the match, MI won the toss and opted to bowl first. GT openers Shubman Gill (38 in 27 balls, with four boundaries and a six) and Sai Sudarshan put the team to a fine start with a 78-run stand. Another half-century stand came between Sudarshan and Jos Buttler (39 in 24 balls, with five fours and a six). Sudarshan played a solid knock of 63 in 41 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes. From 179/4, GT suffered a mini-collapse towards the end as they were restricted to 196/8 in 20 overs.
Skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> (2/29) was the pick of the bowlers for MI, while Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, Mujeeb ur Rahman and Satyanarayana Raju each took a wicket.
In the run chase of 197 runs, MI lost Rohit Sharma (8) and Ryan Rickelton early. However, Tilak Varma (39 in 36 balls, with three fours and a six) and Suryakumar Yadav (48 in 28 balls, with a four and four sixes) tried fighting it out for MI with a 62-run stand. Following their dismissal, MI lost their way and were restricted to 160/6 in 20 overs.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Shubman explained that batting second on such surfaces becomes challenging once the ball gets old, making it harder for batters to clear boundaries

Following Gujarat Titans' (GT) victory over Mumbai Indians (MI), skipper Shubman Gill shared insights into his team's decision to play on a black soil pitch. He explained that batting second on such surfaces becomes challenging once the ball gets old, making it harder for batters to clear boundaries. GT clinched a 36-run win at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, with standout performances from Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj in the bowling department, while Sai Sudharsan contributed a crucial half-century. With this win, GT added two points to their tally and continued their perfect record of 4-0 against MI at Ahmedabad, improving their overall head-to-head to 4-2. Also Read: 'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details Speaking at the post-match presentation, Gill said, "The decision to play on black soil was made before the first match. This wicket suits us well. Once the ball gets old, clearing boundaries becomes tough, so we aimed to maximise the powerplay. Plans don’t always go as expected, but today they worked in our favor. I kept Rashid (Khan) for the end, but since the pacers were doing well, I decided to stick with them. Prasidh was bowling exceptionally, so we capitalised on that momentum." Sai Sudarshan shines for Guajrat Coming to the match, MI won the toss and opted to bowl first. GT openers Shubman Gill (38 in 27 balls, with four boundaries and a six) and Sai Sudarshan put the team to a fine start with a 78-run stand. Another half-century stand came between Sudarshan and Jos Buttler (39 in 24 balls, with five fours and a six). Sudarshan played a solid knock of 63 in 41 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes. From 179/4, GT suffered a mini-collapse towards the end as they were restricted to 196/8 in 20 overs. Skipper Hardik Pandya (2/29) was the pick of the bowlers for MI, while Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, Mujeeb ur Rahman and Satyanarayana Raju each took a wicket. In the run chase of 197 runs, MI lost Rohit Sharma (8) and Ryan Rickelton early. However, Tilak Varma (39 in 36 balls, with three fours and a six) and Suryakumar Yadav (48 in 28 balls, with a four and four sixes) tried fighting it out for MI with a 62-run stand. Following their dismissal, MI lost their way and were restricted to 160/6 in 20 overs. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill reveals strategy behind 'black soil pitch' after win over MI

Time is perhaps the greatest healer. One year after the Ahmedabad crowd booed the then-newly appointed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> captain, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a>, the MI skipper received the loudest cheer at the toss during MI&rsquo;s away <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> game against Gujarat Titans on Saturday. Standing alongside GT captain and India teammate Shubman Gill, Pandya won the toss and elected to field first in MI&rsquo;s second game this season.
Veteran cricketer-turned-broadcaster Ian Bishop called out the toss, and upon knowing that Pandya won it, the crowd cheered loudly.
<h3>Watch Video &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8ubuan5-hp6idt1h-p4riunmg">
🚨 Toss 🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> won the toss and opted to bowl first against <a href="https://twitter.com/gujarat_titans?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gujarat_titans</a> in Ahmedabad! Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/lDF4SwmX6j">https://t.co/lDF4SwmX6j</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GTvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GTvMI</a> <a href="https://t.co/M5qAcHfJEZ">pic.twitter.com/M5qAcHfJEZ</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1905977327671976263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>What happened last year?</h2>
Mumbai Indians shocked the cricket world after appointing all-rounder Hardik Pandya as new captain the past season. The decision to replace Rohit with Pandya as the franchise&rsquo;s on-field skipper didn&rsquo;t sit well among the MI fan base as they kept booing the side&rsquo;s captain at every venue he played in IPL 2024, including at MI&rsquo;s home ground at the Wankhede Stadium.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/kl-rahul-returns-from-paternity-leave-but-delhi-capitals-sweat-over-mukesh-kumars-fitness-for-srh-tie-in-ipl-2025-8904516" rel="dofollow">KL Rahul returns from paternity leave but DC sweat over Mukesh Kumar&rsquo;s fitness for SRH tie</a>
With plenty happening on the field and behind the scenes, considering the change in the leadership group, everything fell apart for the former five-time winners. As a result, Mumbai barely won anything, let alone at least reaching the Playoffs. In 14 contested matches, they prevailed in just four, finishing the season at the bottom of the points table.
However, with Pandya returning to the Indian colours and helping his national team end its ICC trophy drought with the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph in the Americas, the fans that once turned on Pandya cheered the star cricketer during the team&rsquo;s open bus parade in Mumbai.
Pandya then made headlines for his star performances in the recently concluded Champions Trophy 2025, helping India win two ICC titles in as many years. His rise to the top changed people&rsquo;s perception of him, with cheers following him everywhere he went.
<h3>GT vs MI in IPL 2025</h3>
Pandya won the toss and elected to field first, explaining his reasons behind it.
&ldquo;We'll bowl first,&rdquo; Pandya said at the toss.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The simple reason is we don't know how the pitch will play, plus the dew factor. Only last year we played on black soil, otherwise, we have been playing on red soil.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Last year, we had the game under wraps but couldn't finish it. The prep has been fantastic, the boys are excited, and we back each other, be there for each other. Very happy stage. I come back, and the others, we are keeping the options open. Always about playing good cricket, planning right and enjoying the game,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Pandya missed MI's tournament opener against CSK, which they lost by four wickets.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Playing his first game this season, Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya received the loudest cheers during the toss time against GT in Ahmedabad.

Time is perhaps the greatest healer. One year after the Ahmedabad crowd booed the then-newly appointed Mumbai Indians captain, Hardik Pandya, the MI skipper received the loudest cheer at the toss during MI’s away IPL 2025 game against Gujarat Titans on Saturday. Standing alongside GT captain and India teammate Shubman Gill, Pandya won the toss and elected to field first in MI’s second game this season. Veteran cricketer-turned-broadcaster Ian Bishop called out the toss, and upon knowing that Pandya won it, the crowd cheered loudly. Watch Video – 🚨 Toss 🚨@mipaltan won the toss and opted to bowl first against @gujarat_titans in Ahmedabad! Updates ▶ https://t.co/lDF4SwmX6j#TATAIPL | #GTvMI pic.twitter.com/M5qAcHfJEZ — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 29, 2025 What happened last year? Mumbai Indians shocked the cricket world after appointing all-rounder Hardik Pandya as new captain the past season. The decision to replace Rohit with Pandya as the franchise’s on-field skipper didn’t sit well among the MI fan base as they kept booing the side’s captain at every venue he played in IPL 2024, including at MI’s home ground at the Wankhede Stadium. Also read | KL Rahul returns from paternity leave but DC sweat over Mukesh Kumar’s fitness for SRH tie With plenty happening on the field and behind the scenes, considering the change in the leadership group, everything fell apart for the former five-time winners. As a result, Mumbai barely won anything, let alone at least reaching the Playoffs. In 14 contested matches, they prevailed in just four, finishing the season at the bottom of the points table. However, with Pandya returning to the Indian colours and helping his national team end its ICC trophy drought with the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph in the Americas, the fans that once turned on Pandya cheered the star cricketer during the team’s open bus parade in Mumbai. Pandya then made headlines for his star performances in the recently concluded Champions Trophy 2025, helping India win two ICC titles in as many years. His rise to the top changed people’s perception of him, with cheers following him everywhere he went. GT vs MI in IPL 2025 Pandya won the toss and elected to field first, explaining his reasons behind it. “We'll bowl first,” Pandya said at the toss. “The simple reason is we don't know how the pitch will play, plus the dew factor. Only last year we played on black soil, otherwise, we have been playing on red soil. “Last year, we had the game under wraps but couldn't finish it. The prep has been fantastic, the boys are excited, and we back each other, be there for each other. Very happy stage. I come back, and the others, we are keeping the options open. Always about playing good cricket, planning right and enjoying the game,” he continued. Meanwhile, Pandya missed MI's tournament opener against CSK, which they lost by four wickets. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: One year after Ahmedabad crowd booed Hardik Pandya, MI captain receives loudest cheer at toss – WATCH

IPL team <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians (MI)</a> stood at the bottom of the points table last season, having won just four from 14 contested matches. This season, they aim to better their standings and win the tournament for the record sixth time. Former team captain and veteran opener&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> shared his thoughts on the team&rsquo;s mindset in a candid chat in the franchise&rsquo;s video posted on their social media handles, saying he stands by MI&rsquo;s mindset.
Rohit captained MI to five IPL titles, but the franchise replaced him with all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a> as the team skipper last season. With the new leadership and faces in the squad, the team failed to gel under Pandya&rsquo;s captaincy, eventually losing most games and getting knocked out sooner than others. Speaking on the challenges he and the side faced last year, Rohit said,&nbsp;
&ldquo;It was a low for the team, and I thought we didn't play our best cricket. And there were so many things to look forward to after the IPL. I knew a World Cup was coming up, and then I had to shift my focus to the World Cup, knowing that this would be my last T20 World Cup. So I wanted to make it count.&rdquo;
<h2>Rohit&rsquo;s love affair with MI</h2>
Rohit has won IPL six times, five with MI and one with now-defunct Deccan Chargers. Since switching sides in 2011, Rohit has achieved everything that there is to at MI; now, even when the chips are down, and his performances have dropped significantly over the years, he remains motivated to do it for the team and help them win games and more titles. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-india-test-great-quite-surprised-by-csk-head-coach-stephen-fleming-no-home-advantage-at-chepauk-remarks-8903974" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: India Test great &lsquo;quite surprised&rsquo; by CSK head coach&rsquo;s &lsquo;no home advantage at Chepauk' remarks</a>
Rohit echoed Mumbai&rsquo;s mantra, saying everything changed over the years, including his teammates, his role and even his batting position, yet nothing has stopped him from scaling heights at the team he loves playing for.
"Since the time I started to now, a lot of things have changed. I used to bat middle order then, now I'm opening the batting. I was captain then. I'm not the captain now. There were a few teammates who I played with and won the championship, they are not there. They're in the coaching role now, so the roles have changed, a lot of things have changed, but the mindset has not changed."
"What I want to do for this team has not changed, which is to go out there and win games and win trophies. That is what MI is known for. All these years we've gone and won trophies, won games from a situation that no one ever believed. So that is MI and that is what Mumbai is known for," Rohit continued.
<h3>Watch Video -</h3>
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<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHxQ_vgBrCE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Mumbai Indians (@mumbaiindians)</a>
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Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians will play Gujarat Titans in their next IPL 2025 match on Saturday in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Rohit echoed the team's mantra, saying everything changed over the years, yet nothing stopped him from scaling heights at MI.

IPL team Mumbai Indians (MI) stood at the bottom of the points table last season, having won just four from 14 contested matches. This season, they aim to better their standings and win the tournament for the record sixth time. Former team captain and veteran opener Rohit Sharma shared his thoughts on the team’s mindset in a candid chat in the franchise’s video posted on their social media handles, saying he stands by MI’s mindset. Rohit captained MI to five IPL titles, but the franchise replaced him with all-rounder Hardik Pandya as the team skipper last season. With the new leadership and faces in the squad, the team failed to gel under Pandya’s captaincy, eventually losing most games and getting knocked out sooner than others. Speaking on the challenges he and the side faced last year, Rohit said, “It was a low for the team, and I thought we didn't play our best cricket. And there were so many things to look forward to after the IPL. I knew a World Cup was coming up, and then I had to shift my focus to the World Cup, knowing that this would be my last T20 World Cup. So I wanted to make it count.” Rohit’s love affair with MI Rohit has won IPL six times, five with MI and one with now-defunct Deccan Chargers. Since switching sides in 2011, Rohit has achieved everything that there is to at MI; now, even when the chips are down, and his performances have dropped significantly over the years, he remains motivated to do it for the team and help them win games and more titles. Also read | IPL 2025: India Test great ‘quite surprised’ by CSK head coach’s ‘no home advantage at Chepauk' remarks Rohit echoed Mumbai’s mantra, saying everything changed over the years, including his teammates, his role and even his batting position, yet nothing has stopped him from scaling heights at the team he loves playing for. "Since the time I started to now, a lot of things have changed. I used to bat middle order then, now I'm opening the batting. I was captain then. I'm not the captain now. There were a few teammates who I played with and won the championship, they are not there. They're in the coaching role now, so the roles have changed, a lot of things have changed, but the mindset has not changed." "What I want to do for this team has not changed, which is to go out there and win games and win trophies. That is what MI is known for. All these years we've gone and won trophies, won games from a situation that no one ever believed. So that is MI and that is what Mumbai is known for," Rohit continued. Watch Video - View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mumbai Indians (@mumbaiindians) Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians will play Gujarat Titans in their next IPL 2025 match on Saturday in Ahmedabad. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: ‘That is what Mumbai Indians is known for,’ Rohit Sharma gets candid about MI’s mindset – Watch

Ahead of Mumbai Indians' clash against Gujarat Titans on Saturday (March 29), head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mahela-jayawardene">Mahela Jayawardene</a> provided an update on star pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a>&rsquo;s recovery. While confirming that Bumrah is progressing well, he admitted that no exact return date has been set for the speedster in the ongoing IPL 2025 season.
Bumrah has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru following a lower back injury that forced him out of action since the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney. The injury also ruled him out of India&rsquo;s victorious Champions Trophy campaign.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-updated-points-table-indian-premier-league-rankings-standings-net-run-rate-8888780">'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details</a>
"On a daily basis, he's going through his program. So far, everything seems OK, but no timelines have been given by NCA, so we'll wait on that," Jayawardene said.
<h2 data-start="1042" data-end="1206">Hardik Pandya set to return</h2>
The 31-year-old is expected to rejoin the Mumbai squad in April. In his absence, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/trent-boult">Trent Boult</a> and Deepak Chahar have shouldered the pace attack, while debutant Satyanarayana Raju also featured in the team&rsquo;s opener against Chennai Super Kings.
Meanwhile, Mumbai captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> is set to return after serving a one-match suspension. Jayawardene addressed last season&rsquo;s controversy surrounding Pandya&rsquo;s captaincy appointment over Rohit Sharma, urging fans to move on.
"I think it's just a game of cricket. Fans are fans, and emotions are part of it. Twelve months on, he has achieved a lot more, and I'm sure everyone will see beyond what happened last year. We can all enjoy a good game of cricket," he added.
<div class="px-1 storyContent flex flex-col svelte-1ael1cx">
Mumbai Indians began their IPL 2025 campaign against their arch-rivals, the Chennai Super Kings, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The visitors did not have their regular skipper Hardik Pandya, as he was suspended for a match. MI failed to impress with the bat as their top order collapsed heavily. But one of the team's positives was Vignesh Puthur as the debutant picked three wickets.
</div>
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Bumrah has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru following a lower back injury that forced him out of action

Ahead of Mumbai Indians' clash against Gujarat Titans on Saturday (March 29), head coach Mahela Jayawardene provided an update on star pacer Jasprit Bumrah’s recovery. While confirming that Bumrah is progressing well, he admitted that no exact return date has been set for the speedster in the ongoing IPL 2025 season. Bumrah has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru following a lower back injury that forced him out of action since the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney. The injury also ruled him out of India’s victorious Champions Trophy campaign. Also Read: 'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details "On a daily basis, he's going through his program. So far, everything seems OK, but no timelines have been given by NCA, so we'll wait on that," Jayawardene said. Hardik Pandya set to return The 31-year-old is expected to rejoin the Mumbai squad in April. In his absence, Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar have shouldered the pace attack, while debutant Satyanarayana Raju also featured in the team’s opener against Chennai Super Kings. Meanwhile, Mumbai captain Hardik Pandya is set to return after serving a one-match suspension. Jayawardene addressed last season’s controversy surrounding Pandya’s captaincy appointment over Rohit Sharma, urging fans to move on. "I think it's just a game of cricket. Fans are fans, and emotions are part of it. Twelve months on, he has achieved a lot more, and I'm sure everyone will see beyond what happened last year. We can all enjoy a good game of cricket," he added. Mumbai Indians began their IPL 2025 campaign against their arch-rivals, the Chennai Super Kings, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The visitors did not have their regular skipper Hardik Pandya, as he was suspended for a match. MI failed to impress with the bat as their top order collapsed heavily. But one of the team's positives was Vignesh Puthur as the debutant picked three wickets. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: 'No timeline for Bumrah’s return', says MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene

Mumbai Indians (MI) and their first game of the season have a bitter-sweet relationship. It continued in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 too as they lost their season opener against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Sunday (Mar 23). This was the 14th time in 18 seasons that MI lost their opening game.
The first it happened was in inaugural season back in 2008 and Mumbai finished fifth on the table with seven wins and same number of losses from 14 games. This seemed like one a one off thing as Mumbai didn't lose their first game for the next four years and made playoffs in three of those years.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/that-was-aimed-at-mumbai-indians-bcci-selectors-michael-vaughan-on-ishan-kishan-hundred-celebration-against-rr-in-ipl-2025-8886050">&lsquo;That was aimed at Mumbai Indians, BCCI selectors&hellip;,&rsquo; Vaughan on Kishan&rsquo;s celebration against RR</a>
Then came 2013 - where the bittersweet relationship really started. Mumbai lost the first game but then went on to win next five before losing another one. They played 16 regular season games in 2013 and won 11 of them. What more, they won their their first title as well.
Since the 2013 season, MI have never won their first game of the season - a streak which continued in 2025 as well. In 12 seasons before the current one, MI may have lost their opening game but they made the playoffs seven times and won five titles - the joint most in the IPL history along with Chennai Super Kings.
During these seasons, MI have mostly played under Rohit Sharma - one of the most successful IPL captains - winning five titles as skipper and six in total while taking 2009 title with erstwhile Deccan Chargers into account.
Mumbai are currently led by Hardik Pandya - who took over the reins from Sharma in last season. The all-rounder has been an integral part of Mumbai Indians over the years barring his two-year stint at Gujarat Titans during which he led them to one title.
Pandya, however, didn't play the first game this season against CSK in IPL 2025 due to a ban from the last season for slow over-rate but shall be available for the next one.

Since the 2013 season, Mumbai Indians have never won their first game of the season - a streak which continued in 2025 as well as they lost against CSK. Cricket Sports

Mumbai Indians (MI) and their first game of the season have a bitter-sweet relationship. It continued in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 too as they lost their season opener against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Sunday (Mar 23). This was the 14th time in 18 seasons that MI lost their opening game. The first it happened was in inaugural season back in 2008 and Mumbai finished fifth on the table with seven wins and same number of losses from 14 games. This seemed like one a one off thing as Mumbai didn't lose their first game for the next four years and made playoffs in three of those years. Also Read: ‘That was aimed at Mumbai Indians, BCCI selectors…,’ Vaughan on Kishan’s celebration against RR Then came 2013 - where the bittersweet relationship really started. Mumbai lost the first game but then went on to win next five before losing another one. They played 16 regular season games in 2013 and won 11 of them. What more, they won their their first title as well. Since the 2013 season, MI have never won their first game of the season - a streak which continued in 2025 as well. In 12 seasons before the current one, MI may have lost their opening game but they made the playoffs seven times and won five titles - the joint most in the IPL history along with Chennai Super Kings. During these seasons, MI have mostly played under Rohit Sharma - one of the most successful IPL captains - winning five titles as skipper and six in total while taking 2009 title with erstwhile Deccan Chargers into account. Mumbai are currently led by Hardik Pandya - who took over the reins from Sharma in last season. The all-rounder has been an integral part of Mumbai Indians over the years barring his two-year stint at Gujarat Titans during which he led them to one title. Pandya, however, didn't play the first game this season against CSK in IPL 2025 due to a ban from the last season for slow over-rate but shall be available for the next one.

IPL 2025: With loss against CSK, Mumbai Indians have now lost their first game 13 times in a row

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opening batter Rachin Ravindra, who played a key role in his team's win on Sunday (Mar 23) against Mumbai Indians (MI), said it is difficult to ignore the crowd at Chepauk. The Kiwi star was retained by using right-to-match card at the auction last year and paid back the faith shown in him instantly.
"It's difficult to soak it in when you're in the moment, because you're simply focused on winning the game for the team," Ravindra said of the atmosphere after guiding his team to four-wicket win.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-ishan-kishan-was-too-hot-for-rajasthan-royals-after-buying-into-srhs-brute-force-ideology-8884433">IPL 2025: Ishan Kishan was too hot for Rajasthan after buying into SRH's brute-force ideology</a>
"It's hard to ignore, though. You hear Dhoni come out with the whistles and the noise. It's cool to share the crease with him for the first time. He's a legend of the game, and people love him here. So it's special.
"All the crowd would have been hoping that I gave him [the strike] and he finished it. But it's just about getting the job done. He has finished so many games to CSK, and I'm sure there's plenty more to come," he added.
Ravindra scored 65 not out of 45 balls as CSK chased down a 156-run target in the last over. The Kiwi first added 67 runs for the second wicket with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (53) after the early fall of Rahul Tripathi as first wicket.
As wickets continued to tumble on the other end, Ravindra stood tall and found a partner in Ravindra Jadeja and added crucial 36 runs for the sixth wicket.
The lefty was still there when Dhoni came out to bat to a deafening noise. Ravindra, befittingly, hit the winning runs for CSK - a six off his New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner.
"The pitch was definitely holding a fraction, wasn't turning a mile but their lengths made it difficult of runs," acknowledged Ravindra after the match.

The lefty was still there when Dhoni came out to bat to a deafening noise. Ravindra, befittingly, hit the winning runs for CSK - a six off his New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner. Sports Cricket

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opening batter Rachin Ravindra, who played a key role in his team's win on Sunday (Mar 23) against Mumbai Indians (MI), said it is difficult to ignore the crowd at Chepauk. The Kiwi star was retained by using right-to-match card at the auction last year and paid back the faith shown in him instantly. "It's difficult to soak it in when you're in the moment, because you're simply focused on winning the game for the team," Ravindra said of the atmosphere after guiding his team to four-wicket win. Also Read: IPL 2025: Ishan Kishan was too hot for Rajasthan after buying into SRH's brute-force ideology "It's hard to ignore, though. You hear Dhoni come out with the whistles and the noise. It's cool to share the crease with him for the first time. He's a legend of the game, and people love him here. So it's special. "All the crowd would have been hoping that I gave him [the strike] and he finished it. But it's just about getting the job done. He has finished so many games to CSK, and I'm sure there's plenty more to come," he added. Ravindra scored 65 not out of 45 balls as CSK chased down a 156-run target in the last over. The Kiwi first added 67 runs for the second wicket with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (53) after the early fall of Rahul Tripathi as first wicket. As wickets continued to tumble on the other end, Ravindra stood tall and found a partner in Ravindra Jadeja and added crucial 36 runs for the sixth wicket. The lefty was still there when Dhoni came out to bat to a deafening noise. Ravindra, befittingly, hit the winning runs for CSK - a six off his New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner. "The pitch was definitely holding a fraction, wasn't turning a mile but their lengths made it difficult of runs," acknowledged Ravindra after the match.

IPL 2025: 'It's hard to ignore...,' CSK batter Ravindra admits being overwhelmed by Chepauk atmosphere

Mumbai Indians may have lost their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) but their rookie spinner Vignesh Puthur grabbed the attention. The 24-year-old Kerala-born spinner impressed even in loss on Sunday (Mar 23) and got the appreciation from legendary MS Dhoni himself.
Puthur finished with 3/32 in his four overs as MI made it tough for CSK to chase down a modest 155 at Chepauk. After the match, CSK and India legend Dhoni was seen having a word with the young spinner who no doubt will cherish this memory forever - getting a pat on the back in his debut from Dhoni. Have a look at the moment below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
The men in 💛 take home the honours! 💪 A classic clash in Chennai ends in the favour of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> ✨ Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0">https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZGPkkmsRHe">pic.twitter.com/ZGPkkmsRHe</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1903868078380986742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While CSK may have won the match, this MI spinner definitely caught the attention of everyone with almost full season ahead of him to make full use of this opportunity.
IPL 2025: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-ishan-kishan-was-too-hot-for-rajasthan-royals-after-buying-into-srhs-brute-force-ideology-8884433">Ishan Kishan was too hot for Rajasthan after buying into SRH's brute-force ideology</a>
<h2>Who is Vignesh Puthur - MI's new spin sensation</h2>
The 24-year-old left-arm wrist spinner from Malappuram, Kerala, made an immediate impact in his debut for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025, leaving fans and cricketing experts in awe.
Coming from a modest background, his father, Sunil Kumar, is an autorickshaw driver, and his mother, K.P. Bindu, is a homemaker. Growing up in Malappuram, cricket was more of a dream than a reality for Puthur. Financial constraints often posed challenges, but his passion and determination never wavered.
Mumbai Indians, known for their exceptional talent scouting system, took notice of Puthur during the Kerala Premier League. Recognising his potential, MI acquired him in the IPL 2025 auction for $35,000&mdash;a moment that changed his life forever. To ensure his growth as a bowler, the franchise even sent him to South Africa for the SA20 league, where he served as a net bowler for MI Cape Town. There, he trained alongside Rashid Khan, one of the finest wrist-spinners in the world, further refining his skills.

24-year-old Kerala-born MI spinner Vignesh Puthur impressed even in loss on Sunday (Mar 23) and got the appreciation from legendary MS Dhoni himself. Cricket SPorts

Mumbai Indians may have lost their opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) but their rookie spinner Vignesh Puthur grabbed the attention. The 24-year-old Kerala-born spinner impressed even in loss on Sunday (Mar 23) and got the appreciation from legendary MS Dhoni himself. Puthur finished with 3/32 in his four overs as MI made it tough for CSK to chase down a modest 155 at Chepauk. After the match, CSK and India legend Dhoni was seen having a word with the young spinner who no doubt will cherish this memory forever - getting a pat on the back in his debut from Dhoni. Have a look at the moment below: The men in 💛 take home the honours! 💪 A classic clash in Chennai ends in the favour of #CSK ✨ Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0#TATAIPL | #CSKvMI | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/ZGPkkmsRHe — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 23, 2025 While CSK may have won the match, this MI spinner definitely caught the attention of everyone with almost full season ahead of him to make full use of this opportunity. IPL 2025: Ishan Kishan was too hot for Rajasthan after buying into SRH's brute-force ideology Who is Vignesh Puthur - MI's new spin sensation The 24-year-old left-arm wrist spinner from Malappuram, Kerala, made an immediate impact in his debut for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025, leaving fans and cricketing experts in awe. Coming from a modest background, his father, Sunil Kumar, is an autorickshaw driver, and his mother, K.P. Bindu, is a homemaker. Growing up in Malappuram, cricket was more of a dream than a reality for Puthur. Financial constraints often posed challenges, but his passion and determination never wavered. Mumbai Indians, known for their exceptional talent scouting system, took notice of Puthur during the Kerala Premier League. Recognising his potential, MI acquired him in the IPL 2025 auction for $35,000—a moment that changed his life forever. To ensure his growth as a bowler, the franchise even sent him to South Africa for the SA20 league, where he served as a net bowler for MI Cape Town. There, he trained alongside Rashid Khan, one of the finest wrist-spinners in the world, further refining his skills.

IPL 2025: MS Dhoni acknowledges MI spinner Vignesh Puthur's craft in heartfelt moment after CSK win - WATCH

Cricket has long been a sport where talent meets opportunity, and Vignesh Puthur is the latest embodiment of that. The 24-year-old left-arm wrist spinner from Malappuram, Kerala, made an immediate impact in his debut for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians">Mumbai Indians</a> in Indian Premier League 2025, leaving fans and cricketing experts in awe. With a spell of 3/32 against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings">Chennai Super Kings</a>, he not only justified the faith MI put in him but also demonstrated that raw talent, when nurtured correctly, can create magic on the biggest stage.
<h2>Humble beginnings</h2>
Vignesh Puthur's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Coming from a modest background, his father, Sunil Kumar, is an autorickshaw driver, and his mother, K.P. Bindu, is a homemaker. Growing up in Malappuram, cricket was more of a dream than a reality for Puthur. Financial constraints often posed challenges, but his passion and determination never wavered.
Despite the hardships, he moved from Malappuram to Thrissur in pursuit of his cricketing dreams. Initially a medium pacer until his college years, Puthur made a pivotal shift to spin bowling, and it turned out to be a game-changing decision. His ability to give the ball flight and deceive batters with his variations soon caught the attention of the cricketing fraternity.
While studying for a Master of Arts in Literature at St. Thomas College in Thrissur, Puthur honed his skills further, making a name for himself in Kerala&rsquo;s domestic circuits. His performances for the Alleppey Ripples in the inaugural Kerala Cricket League turned heads, and his stint in the Tamil Nadu Premier League further solidified his reputation as a promising spinner.
Mumbai Indians, known for their exceptional talent scouting system, took notice of Puthur during the Kerala Premier League. Recognising his potential, MI acquired him in the IPL 2025 auction for $35,000&mdash;a moment that changed his life forever. To ensure his growth as a bowler, the franchise even sent him to South Africa for the SA20 league, where he served as a net bowler for MI Cape Town. There, he trained alongside <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rashid-khan">Rashid Khan</a>, one of the finest wrist-spinners in the world, further refining his skills.
<h2>IPL debut: A dream come true</h2>
Vignesh Puthur made his IPL debut as an impact substitute, replacing none other than India&rsquo;s cricketing icon, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a>. Stepping onto the field for the first time in front of millions of fans, Puthur showed no signs of nerves. He delivered a spell that left even the most seasoned CSK batters struggling. His three crucial wickets included the prized scalps of CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Deepak Hooda.
For now, the spotlight is on Vignesh Puthur&mdash;the boy from Kerala who spun his way into IPL history.

Cricket, Sports: With a spell of 3/32 vs CSK, Vignesh not only justified the faith MI put in him but also showed that talent, when nurtured correctly, can create magic

Cricket has long been a sport where talent meets opportunity, and Vignesh Puthur is the latest embodiment of that. The 24-year-old left-arm wrist spinner from Malappuram, Kerala, made an immediate impact in his debut for Mumbai Indians in Indian Premier League 2025, leaving fans and cricketing experts in awe. With a spell of 3/32 against Chennai Super Kings, he not only justified the faith MI put in him but also demonstrated that raw talent, when nurtured correctly, can create magic on the biggest stage. Humble beginnings Vignesh Puthur's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Coming from a modest background, his father, Sunil Kumar, is an autorickshaw driver, and his mother, K.P. Bindu, is a homemaker. Growing up in Malappuram, cricket was more of a dream than a reality for Puthur. Financial constraints often posed challenges, but his passion and determination never wavered. Despite the hardships, he moved from Malappuram to Thrissur in pursuit of his cricketing dreams. Initially a medium pacer until his college years, Puthur made a pivotal shift to spin bowling, and it turned out to be a game-changing decision. His ability to give the ball flight and deceive batters with his variations soon caught the attention of the cricketing fraternity. While studying for a Master of Arts in Literature at St. Thomas College in Thrissur, Puthur honed his skills further, making a name for himself in Kerala’s domestic circuits. His performances for the Alleppey Ripples in the inaugural Kerala Cricket League turned heads, and his stint in the Tamil Nadu Premier League further solidified his reputation as a promising spinner. Mumbai Indians, known for their exceptional talent scouting system, took notice of Puthur during the Kerala Premier League. Recognising his potential, MI acquired him in the IPL 2025 auction for $35,000—a moment that changed his life forever. To ensure his growth as a bowler, the franchise even sent him to South Africa for the SA20 league, where he served as a net bowler for MI Cape Town. There, he trained alongside Rashid Khan, one of the finest wrist-spinners in the world, further refining his skills. IPL debut: A dream come true Vignesh Puthur made his IPL debut as an impact substitute, replacing none other than India’s cricketing icon, Rohit Sharma. Stepping onto the field for the first time in front of millions of fans, Puthur showed no signs of nerves. He delivered a spell that left even the most seasoned CSK batters struggling. His three crucial wickets included the prized scalps of CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Deepak Hooda. For now, the spotlight is on Vignesh Puthur—the boy from Kerala who spun his way into IPL history.

New spin wizard in town! Meet 24-year-old Vignesh Puthur, Mumbai Indians spinner from Kerala who impressed on IPL debut

MS Dhoni's lightning-fast stumping left Noor Ahmad in awe during Chennai Super Kings' high-octane Indian Premier League 2025 clash against Mumbai Indians. The electrifying moment at Chepauk sent the crowd into a frenzy as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mahendra-singh-dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a>'s brilliance behind the stumps turned the tide in CSK's favour.
The magic unfolded in the 11th over of MI's innings when stand-in skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a> stepped out to play an inside-out drive but misjudged Noor's delivery. Before he could react, Dhoni had already whipped off the bails with incredible speed, sending Surya back for 29 from 26 balls.
"The focus was on landing the ball in the right area, and Surya's wicket was special. MSD's stumping was out of this world. Having Mahi bhai behind the stumps is a huge support for me," Noor said at the post-match presentation.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-not-rachin-ravindra-mi-captain-suryakumar-yadav-says-this-player-who-took-game-away-from-them-8883668">IPL 2025: Not Rachin Ravindra, MI captain Suryakumar Yadav says THIS player who took game away from them</a>
Justifying his $116 million price tag, Noor spun a web around MI's batters, returning with stunning figures of 4/18 and earning the Player of the Match award. His spell choked MI&rsquo;s scoring, dismissing key batters one after another. Robin Minz found himself caught at long off, Tilak Varma fell victim to a deceptive googly, and Naman Dhir misjudged a sweep, losing his stumps.
Noor's heroics restricted MI to 155/9, a target CSK chased down comfortably. Rachin Ravindra (65 not out) and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (53) led the charge, sealing a commanding four-wicket victory for the five-time champions.
"It feels special to play in the IPL. I'm happy for the team and my contribution," Noor reflected after his match-winning performance.
<h2 data-start="0" data-end="84">'Noor Ahmad is an X-factor'</h2>
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ruturaj-gaikwad" rel="dofollow">Ruturaj Gaikwad</a> praised spinner Noor Ahmad as the team's 'X factor' after their hard-fought four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians. However, he admitted they could have been more clinical with the bat.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Gaikwad expressed his satisfaction with the win while acknowledging areas for improvement. "Happy to be on the winning side. We would have liked to be more clinical, but that&rsquo;s how the game goes. Batting at No. 3 is a team requirement, and I am happy to adjust for the team&rsquo;s balance," he said.
Gaikwad also highlighted the impact of CSK's spin attack. "Right after the auction, we were excited about having all three spinners bowling in tandem at Chepauk. Khaleel Ahmed brings experience, Noor is an X factor, and having Ravichandran Ashwin is a huge plus for us."
He also provided an update on MS Dhoni, saying, "He is fitter than ever this year and still looks young."
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: The magic unfolded in the 11th over of MI's innings when Suryakumar Yadav stepped out to play an inside-out drive but misjudged Noor's delivery

MS Dhoni's lightning-fast stumping left Noor Ahmad in awe during Chennai Super Kings' high-octane Indian Premier League 2025 clash against Mumbai Indians. The electrifying moment at Chepauk sent the crowd into a frenzy as Mahendra Singh Dhoni's brilliance behind the stumps turned the tide in CSK's favour. The magic unfolded in the 11th over of MI's innings when stand-in skipper Suryakumar Yadav stepped out to play an inside-out drive but misjudged Noor's delivery. Before he could react, Dhoni had already whipped off the bails with incredible speed, sending Surya back for 29 from 26 balls. "The focus was on landing the ball in the right area, and Surya's wicket was special. MSD's stumping was out of this world. Having Mahi bhai behind the stumps is a huge support for me," Noor said at the post-match presentation. Also Read: IPL 2025: Not Rachin Ravindra, MI captain Suryakumar Yadav says THIS player who took game away from them Justifying his $116 million price tag, Noor spun a web around MI's batters, returning with stunning figures of 4/18 and earning the Player of the Match award. His spell choked MI’s scoring, dismissing key batters one after another. Robin Minz found himself caught at long off, Tilak Varma fell victim to a deceptive googly, and Naman Dhir misjudged a sweep, losing his stumps. Noor's heroics restricted MI to 155/9, a target CSK chased down comfortably. Rachin Ravindra (65 not out) and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (53) led the charge, sealing a commanding four-wicket victory for the five-time champions. "It feels special to play in the IPL. I'm happy for the team and my contribution," Noor reflected after his match-winning performance. 'Noor Ahmad is an X-factor' Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad praised spinner Noor Ahmad as the team's 'X factor' after their hard-fought four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians. However, he admitted they could have been more clinical with the bat. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Gaikwad expressed his satisfaction with the win while acknowledging areas for improvement. "Happy to be on the winning side. We would have liked to be more clinical, but that’s how the game goes. Batting at No. 3 is a team requirement, and I am happy to adjust for the team’s balance," he said. Gaikwad also highlighted the impact of CSK's spin attack. "Right after the auction, we were excited about having all three spinners bowling in tandem at Chepauk. Khaleel Ahmed brings experience, Noor is an X factor, and having Ravichandran Ashwin is a huge plus for us." He also provided an update on MS Dhoni, saying, "He is fitter than ever this year and still looks young." (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Noor Ahmad in awe of MS Dhoni's 'out of world' stumping of Suryakumar Yadav

Mumbai Indians' stand-in captain, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a>, admitted that his team fell 15-20 runs short despite putting up a commendable fight against Chennai Super Kings in their high-stakes IPL 2025 match on Sunday (March 23).
In another thrilling match of Indian Premier League&rsquo;s &lsquo;El Clasico,&rsquo; MI faced a sea of yellow at Chepauk after being put in to bat by CSK. Their innings got off to a rocky start as veteran opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> departed for a four-ball duck. Left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad dismantled MI&rsquo;s middle order, hampering their chances of posting a formidable total.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/csk-vs-mi-ipl-2025-rohit-attains-unwanted-record-dhoni-rolls-back-years-with-spicy-stumping-watch-8883370">CSK vs MI: Rohit attains unwanted record; MS Dhoni rolls back years with spicy stumping &ndash; Watch</a>
A crucial 51-run stand between Suryakumar and Tilak Varma helped MI scrape to 155/9. However, the total appeared below par on a challenging surface. Reflecting on the innings, Suryakumar said, "Absolutely. We were 15-20 runs short, but the fight the boys showed was commendable."
Despite the underwhelming total, MI unearthed an unexpected hero in debutant Vignesh Puthur. The young pacer, who had never played a domestic match before, made an instant impact. He dismissed CSK skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ruturaj-gaikwad" rel="dofollow">Ruturaj Gaikwad</a> with his maiden IPL wicket and later sent back Shivam Dube and Deepak Hooda, keeping MI in the hunt.
<h2>SKY all praise for Vignesh</h2>
However, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rachin-ravindra">Rachin Ravindra</a> anchored CSK&rsquo;s chase and finished the game in style with a towering six, sealing a four-wicket win for the hosts. Suryakumar credited MI&rsquo;s scouting system for unearthing talents like Vignesh, saying, "Amazing, MI is known for that&mdash;giving youngsters opportunities. The scouts work for 10 months, and he is a product of that. I kept his one over in the pocket if the game went deep, but it was a no-brainer to give him the 18th over."
While Rachin steered CSK home, Suryakumar believed it was Gaikwad&rsquo;s blistering 53 that ultimately decided the match. "There wasn't any dew, but it was sticky. The way Ruturaj batted in the second innings took the game away from us," he signed off.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, sports: Rachin Ravindra anchored Chennai Super Kings' chase and finished the game in style with a towering six, sealing a four-wicket win for the hosts

Mumbai Indians' stand-in captain, Suryakumar Yadav, admitted that his team fell 15-20 runs short despite putting up a commendable fight against Chennai Super Kings in their high-stakes IPL 2025 match on Sunday (March 23). In another thrilling match of Indian Premier League’s ‘El Clasico,’ MI faced a sea of yellow at Chepauk after being put in to bat by CSK. Their innings got off to a rocky start as veteran opener Rohit Sharma departed for a four-ball duck. Left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad dismantled MI’s middle order, hampering their chances of posting a formidable total. Also Read: CSK vs MI: Rohit attains unwanted record; MS Dhoni rolls back years with spicy stumping – Watch A crucial 51-run stand between Suryakumar and Tilak Varma helped MI scrape to 155/9. However, the total appeared below par on a challenging surface. Reflecting on the innings, Suryakumar said, "Absolutely. We were 15-20 runs short, but the fight the boys showed was commendable." Despite the underwhelming total, MI unearthed an unexpected hero in debutant Vignesh Puthur. The young pacer, who had never played a domestic match before, made an instant impact. He dismissed CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad with his maiden IPL wicket and later sent back Shivam Dube and Deepak Hooda, keeping MI in the hunt. SKY all praise for Vignesh However, Rachin Ravindra anchored CSK’s chase and finished the game in style with a towering six, sealing a four-wicket win for the hosts. Suryakumar credited MI’s scouting system for unearthing talents like Vignesh, saying, "Amazing, MI is known for that—giving youngsters opportunities. The scouts work for 10 months, and he is a product of that. I kept his one over in the pocket if the game went deep, but it was a no-brainer to give him the 18th over." While Rachin steered CSK home, Suryakumar believed it was Gaikwad’s blistering 53 that ultimately decided the match. "There wasn't any dew, but it was sticky. The way Ruturaj batted in the second innings took the game away from us," he signed off. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025: Not Rachin Ravindra, MI captain Suryakumar Yadav says THIS player who took game away from them

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings" rel="dofollow">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> opened their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> campaign with a comfortable four-wicket win over rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) in their tournament opener at Chepauk on Sunday evening. Opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rachin-ravindra" rel="dofollow">Rachin Ravindra</a> played an unbeaten knock of 65 while chasing, with Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad impressing everyone with a clutch half-century. In the first innings, Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmed returned with four wickets for 18 runs without conceding a boundary.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/csk-vs-mi-chennai-super-kings-open-ipl-2025-campaign-with-comfortable-win-over-mumbai-indians-8883408" rel="dofollow">CSK vs MI: Chennai Super Kings open IPL 2025 campaign with comfortable win over Mumbai Indians</a>
Chennai won the toss and elected to field first, bringing former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin back in the side, which included a few debutants. Seamer Khaleel Ahmed removed MI star opener Rohit Sharma on a four-ball duck before removing MI&rsquo;s gloveman Ryan Rickelton soon after. Ashwin picked a wicket on his return to CSK after a decade, with MI losing three inside the Powerplay.
Seasoned campaigners, stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma steadied MI&rsquo;s sinking ship, but not for long. CSK&rsquo;s latest recruit, Noor Ahmed, tore into MI&rsquo;s middle order, returning with four wickets on his debut for the franchise.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8lygcaj-2xskz9dl-v8p13grj">
𝙁𝙖𝙨𝙩. 𝙁𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙈𝙎 𝘿𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙞 🫡 📹 Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> legend's jaw-dropping reflexes behind the stumps 🔥 Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0">https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/S26cUYzRd8">pic.twitter.com/S26cUYzRd8</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1903829068996632608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
Although CSK pushed MI&rsquo;s back against the wall, a late blitz from their former seamer Deepak Chahar propelled Mumbai to a fighting 155 for nine in 20 overs.
<h2>Rachin, Rutu see CSK home</h2>
Rachin Ravindra continued his excellent touch at the top, while CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad came to the fore to help his team through in the first game. After Deepak removed CSK&rsquo;s Impact Player sub &ndash; Rahul Tripathi, caught behind cheaply, Rachin and Ruturaj stitched a 67-run stand for the second wicket, which included 53 just from the skipper&rsquo;s bat.&nbsp;
However, the introduction of debutant unorthodox spinner Vignesh Puthur to the attack somewhat dented CSK&rsquo;s scoring rate, as he picked three wickets, all biggies, including Gaikwad, Shivam Dube and Deepak Hooda.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8lyg1c7-815q4hwt-gs550qcd">
𝘼 𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢 𝙙𝙚𝙗𝙪𝙩 ✨ Twin strikes from the young Vignesh Puthur sparks a comeback for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MI</a> 💙 Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0">https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> <a href="https://t.co/DKh2r1mmOx">pic.twitter.com/DKh2r1mmOx</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1903853552403095995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
England&rsquo;s Sam Curran departed soon after before a mix-up between Ravindra Jadeja and Rachin resulted in another dismissal at the stroke of chase completion.
MS Dhoni walked down the track but couldn&rsquo;t finish off the game.&nbsp;
Rachin completed the formality by hitting his national teammate Mitchell Santner for a first-ball six in the last over to complete the chase.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8lyfi85-kc8ejt7p-qofvolst">
The men in 💛 take home the honours! 💪 A classic clash in Chennai ends in the favour of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> ✨ Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0">https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZGPkkmsRHe">pic.twitter.com/ZGPkkmsRHe</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1903868078380986742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote>

Cricket, Sports: The overseas duo of spinner Noor Ahmed and opener Rachin Ravindra starred for the hosts as they clinched a four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opened their IPL 2025 campaign with a comfortable four-wicket win over rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) in their tournament opener at Chepauk on Sunday evening. Opener Rachin Ravindra played an unbeaten knock of 65 while chasing, with Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad impressing everyone with a clutch half-century. In the first innings, Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmed returned with four wickets for 18 runs without conceding a boundary. Also read | CSK vs MI: Chennai Super Kings open IPL 2025 campaign with comfortable win over Mumbai Indians Chennai won the toss and elected to field first, bringing former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin back in the side, which included a few debutants. Seamer Khaleel Ahmed removed MI star opener Rohit Sharma on a four-ball duck before removing MI’s gloveman Ryan Rickelton soon after. Ashwin picked a wicket on his return to CSK after a decade, with MI losing three inside the Powerplay. Seasoned campaigners, stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma steadied MI’s sinking ship, but not for long. CSK’s latest recruit, Noor Ahmed, tore into MI’s middle order, returning with four wickets on his debut for the franchise. 𝙁𝙖𝙨𝙩. 𝙁𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙈𝙎 𝘿𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙞 🫡 📹 Watch #CSK legend's jaw-dropping reflexes behind the stumps 🔥 Updates ▶ https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0#TATAIPL | #CSKvMI | @ChennaiIPL | @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/S26cUYzRd8 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 23, 2025 Although CSK pushed MI’s back against the wall, a late blitz from their former seamer Deepak Chahar propelled Mumbai to a fighting 155 for nine in 20 overs. Rachin, Rutu see CSK home Rachin Ravindra continued his excellent touch at the top, while CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad came to the fore to help his team through in the first game. After Deepak removed CSK’s Impact Player sub – Rahul Tripathi, caught behind cheaply, Rachin and Ruturaj stitched a 67-run stand for the second wicket, which included 53 just from the skipper’s bat. However, the introduction of debutant unorthodox spinner Vignesh Puthur to the attack somewhat dented CSK’s scoring rate, as he picked three wickets, all biggies, including Gaikwad, Shivam Dube and Deepak Hooda. 𝘼 𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢 𝙙𝙚𝙗𝙪𝙩 ✨ Twin strikes from the young Vignesh Puthur sparks a comeback for #MI 💙 Updates ▶️ https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0#TATAIPL | #CSKvMI | @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/DKh2r1mmOx — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 23, 2025 England’s Sam Curran departed soon after before a mix-up between Ravindra Jadeja and Rachin resulted in another dismissal at the stroke of chase completion. MS Dhoni walked down the track but couldn’t finish off the game. Rachin completed the formality by hitting his national teammate Mitchell Santner for a first-ball six in the last over to complete the chase. The men in 💛 take home the honours! 💪 A classic clash in Chennai ends in the favour of #CSK ✨ Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/QlMj4G7kV0#TATAIPL | #CSKvMI | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/ZGPkkmsRHe — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 23, 2025

CSK vs MI: Chennai Super Kings open IPL 2025 campaign with comfortable win over Mumbai Indians

The much-anticipated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) 2025 is set to begin on March 22, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata.
Ahead of the tournament, former Indian cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/harbhajan-singh">Harbhajan Singh</a> spoke about the fierce rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-mohammed-siraj-recalls-emotional-bond-with-virat-kohli-rcb-opens-up-on-new-stint-with-gujarat-titans-8877234">IPL 2025: Siraj recalls emotional bond with Virat Kohli, admits feeling emotional over RCB separation</a>
"CSK vs MI is like India vs Pakistan in the IPL. Their fans are deeply passionate, and both teams have had legendary players over the years. If you beat CSK, your team is in the headlines, and the same goes for MI. It&rsquo;s a high-pressure, high-intensity match that is always thrilling to watch," Harbhajan said.
<h2 data-start="836" data-end="1149">'Riyan is one to watch'</h2>
The IPL veteran also expressed his admiration for Rajasthan Royals' young star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/riyan-parag">Riyan Parag</a>, who has been appointed captain in the absence of Sanju Samson.
"Every season, we see young players making an impact. Riyan Parag is one to watch&mdash;he has immense talent, and now, as Rajasthan Royals captain, he has a great opportunity to prove himself. I also want to see how the new young spinners perform this season, especially in terms of their mindset," he added.
The rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings remains one of the biggest attractions of the IPL. Fans are eagerly waiting to see <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/msd">MS Dhoni</a> back in yellow, with their last encounter being a memorable one&mdash;CSK defeated MI by 20 runs. Rohit Sharma's century went in vain as Matheesha Pathirana's four-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Game award. Interestingly, Dhoni&rsquo;s explosive 20 runs off just four balls turned out to be the exact margin of victory.
As IPL 2025 kicks off, all eyes will once again be on the biggest clash of the tournament&mdash;CSK vs MI.

Sports, Cricket: The IPL veteran also expressed his admiration for Rajasthan Royals' young star Riyan Parag, who has been appointed captain in the absence of Sanju Samson

The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to begin on March 22, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata. Ahead of the tournament, former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh spoke about the fierce rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI). Also Read: IPL 2025: Siraj recalls emotional bond with Virat Kohli, admits feeling emotional over RCB separation "CSK vs MI is like India vs Pakistan in the IPL. Their fans are deeply passionate, and both teams have had legendary players over the years. If you beat CSK, your team is in the headlines, and the same goes for MI. It’s a high-pressure, high-intensity match that is always thrilling to watch," Harbhajan said. 'Riyan is one to watch' The IPL veteran also expressed his admiration for Rajasthan Royals' young star Riyan Parag, who has been appointed captain in the absence of Sanju Samson. "Every season, we see young players making an impact. Riyan Parag is one to watch—he has immense talent, and now, as Rajasthan Royals captain, he has a great opportunity to prove himself. I also want to see how the new young spinners perform this season, especially in terms of their mindset," he added. The rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings remains one of the biggest attractions of the IPL. Fans are eagerly waiting to see MS Dhoni back in yellow, with their last encounter being a memorable one—CSK defeated MI by 20 runs. Rohit Sharma's century went in vain as Matheesha Pathirana's four-wicket haul earned him the Player of the Game award. Interestingly, Dhoni’s explosive 20 runs off just four balls turned out to be the exact margin of victory. As IPL 2025 kicks off, all eyes will once again be on the biggest clash of the tournament—CSK vs MI.

IPL 2025 | 'CSK vs MI is like India-Pakistan of IPL', says former India spinner Harbhajan Singh

Ace India seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a> has returned to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, fuelling his chances of making a potential early comeback in the IPL 2025. Bumrah reported at the NCA for the second time in over a week to assess his readiness for the 18th edition of the cash-rich league starting Saturday (Mar 22). Mumbai Indians (MI) will face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the marquee clash on Sunday evening.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-jasprit-bumrah-leaves-scg-amid-injury-scare-post-lunch-on-day-2-watch-8589779" rel="dofollow">Bumrah suffered a back injury during the fifth and final BGT Test against Australia at the SCG</a> in January and has been out of action since. Though he came close to attaining full fitness in time for the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025, a last-minute lapse forced the selectors to overlook him; despite not having him, India won its third CT title by beating New Zealand in the final.
However, with the IPL 2025 just around the corner, MI is sweating over Bumrah&rsquo;s fitness. During his first visit to the NCA, Bumrah complained of back pain and discomfort while bowling, with the NCA doctors recommending specific exercises for the same, further advising him to return a week later.
Should Bumrah feel comfortable in his follow-through, jump, and while delivering the ball, he shall return earlier than expected to the Mumbai Indians squad for the impending season. However, per latest reports, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-injury-update-latest-news-blow-for-mumbai-indians-as-pacer-ruled-out-of-first-few-ipl-2025-games-8852847" rel="dofollow">ace seamer would miss the first week's action</a>.
On his potential return date, MI&rsquo;s head coach Mahela Jayawardene said, "He just started that progress. We have to wait and see what their feedback is on him. At the moment, everything is going well, but obviously, it is on a day-to-day basis, the progress. He is in good spirits, and hopefully, he can join the team sooner."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-revokes-saliva-ban-in-major-changes-ahead-of-ipl-2025-second-new-ball-11th-over-8873247" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 Rule Change: BCCI informs all captains of two massive rule changes ahead of IPL 2025, check out</a>
"Obviously, not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world and he has been a fantastic pro for us for many years," he further said during the pre-season presser.
<h2>Sanju to report at NCA next month</h2>
Besides, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson will also return to the NCA for clearance next month. After receiving partial clearance over his finger injury, Sanju can bat but wasn't cleared to keep wickets following surgery on his index finger.
As a result, RR decided to use him as the impact player for the first three games, with young batter Riyan Parag named team captain in his place. After three matches, Samson will report to the NCA to determine his role in the remainder of the tournament.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: During his first visit to the NCA, Bumrah complained of discomfort while bowling, with the NCA doctors recommending specific exercises for the same.

Ace India seamer Jasprit Bumrah has returned to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, fuelling his chances of making a potential early comeback in the IPL 2025. Bumrah reported at the NCA for the second time in over a week to assess his readiness for the 18th edition of the cash-rich league starting Saturday (Mar 22). Mumbai Indians (MI) will face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the marquee clash on Sunday evening. Bumrah suffered a back injury during the fifth and final BGT Test against Australia at the SCG in January and has been out of action since. Though he came close to attaining full fitness in time for the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025, a last-minute lapse forced the selectors to overlook him; despite not having him, India won its third CT title by beating New Zealand in the final. However, with the IPL 2025 just around the corner, MI is sweating over Bumrah’s fitness. During his first visit to the NCA, Bumrah complained of back pain and discomfort while bowling, with the NCA doctors recommending specific exercises for the same, further advising him to return a week later. Should Bumrah feel comfortable in his follow-through, jump, and while delivering the ball, he shall return earlier than expected to the Mumbai Indians squad for the impending season. However, per latest reports, the ace seamer would miss the first week's action. On his potential return date, MI’s head coach Mahela Jayawardene said, "He just started that progress. We have to wait and see what their feedback is on him. At the moment, everything is going well, but obviously, it is on a day-to-day basis, the progress. He is in good spirits, and hopefully, he can join the team sooner." Also read | IPL 2025 Rule Change: BCCI informs all captains of two massive rule changes ahead of IPL 2025, check out "Obviously, not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world and he has been a fantastic pro for us for many years," he further said during the pre-season presser. Sanju to report at NCA next month Besides, Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson will also return to the NCA for clearance next month. After receiving partial clearance over his finger injury, Sanju can bat but wasn't cleared to keep wickets following surgery on his index finger. As a result, RR decided to use him as the impact player for the first three games, with young batter Riyan Parag named team captain in his place. After three matches, Samson will report to the NCA to determine his role in the remainder of the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Jasprit Bumrah’s NCA return fuels chances of his early IPL 2025 comeback

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya">Hardik Pandya</a> has expressed his gratitude for having experienced leaders by his side as he takes charge of the five-time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL) champions in the upcoming season. After a disappointing campaign last year, Pandya is looking forward to the support and guidance available within the squad.
Returning to MI last season after leading Gujarat Titans for two years, Pandya acknowledged the wealth of experience surrounding him.
"I am fortunate to have three captains playing alongside me. Their experience adds immense value. I know that I have three different minds who have led India in various formats and possess years of leadership experience. They can always support me, guide me, and put an arm around my shoulder when needed," Pandya said at a press conference.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/how-to-buy-kkr-vs-rcb-ipl-tickets-sale-date-prices-and-where-to-buy-from-check-steps-and-other-key-details-8868872">How to buy KKR vs RCB IPL tickets: Sale date, prices, and where to buy from Check Steps and other Key Details</a>
He was likely referring to Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav&mdash;all of whom have captained India. Rohit, a veteran leader, has led MI to five IPL titles and captained India across formats. Bumrah has led the national team in T20Is and Tests, while Suryakumar is India's current T20I captain. With such an experienced core, Pandya will have strong backing as he looks to steer Mumbai Indians to success this season.
<h2 data-start="820" data-end="1250">SKY to lead MI in opening match</h2>
However, MI will begin their IPL 2025 campaign without Pandya, as he serves a one-match suspension. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a> will lead the side in their opening clash against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday.
Pandya's suspension stems from a slow over-rate offense in MI&rsquo;s last match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This was his third such offense in the league, resulting in a one-match ban and a $35,000 fine.
Speaking at the press conference, Pandya admitted that the delay in the final over was unintentional but unavoidable at times.
"That is out of my control. Last year, the last over was delayed by a minute and a half or two. At that moment, I didn&rsquo;t realize the consequences," he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Despite his absence, Pandya expressed confidence in Suryakumar Yadav&rsquo;s leadership.&nbsp;"It&rsquo;s unfortunate, but I have to accept the rules. Whether this regulation continues next season is up to the authorities. In my absence, Surya is the ideal choice to lead. He already captains India in T20Is, so he&rsquo;s well-equipped for the role," Pandya concluded.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: MI will begin their IPL 2025 campaign without Pandya, as he serves a one-match suspension. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the side in their opening match against CSK

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya has expressed his gratitude for having experienced leaders by his side as he takes charge of the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions in the upcoming season. After a disappointing campaign last year, Pandya is looking forward to the support and guidance available within the squad. Returning to MI last season after leading Gujarat Titans for two years, Pandya acknowledged the wealth of experience surrounding him. "I am fortunate to have three captains playing alongside me. Their experience adds immense value. I know that I have three different minds who have led India in various formats and possess years of leadership experience. They can always support me, guide me, and put an arm around my shoulder when needed," Pandya said at a press conference. Also Read: How to buy KKR vs RCB IPL tickets: Sale date, prices, and where to buy from Check Steps and other Key Details He was likely referring to Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav—all of whom have captained India. Rohit, a veteran leader, has led MI to five IPL titles and captained India across formats. Bumrah has led the national team in T20Is and Tests, while Suryakumar is India's current T20I captain. With such an experienced core, Pandya will have strong backing as he looks to steer Mumbai Indians to success this season. SKY to lead MI in opening match However, MI will begin their IPL 2025 campaign without Pandya, as he serves a one-match suspension. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the side in their opening clash against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. Pandya's suspension stems from a slow over-rate offense in MI’s last match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This was his third such offense in the league, resulting in a one-match ban and a $35,000 fine. Speaking at the press conference, Pandya admitted that the delay in the final over was unintentional but unavoidable at times. "That is out of my control. Last year, the last over was delayed by a minute and a half or two. At that moment, I didn’t realize the consequences," he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Despite his absence, Pandya expressed confidence in Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership. "It’s unfortunate, but I have to accept the rules. Whether this regulation continues next season is up to the authorities. In my absence, Surya is the ideal choice to lead. He already captains India in T20Is, so he’s well-equipped for the role," Pandya concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 | Hardik Pandya: Slow over-rates are sometimes beyond my control

Mumbai Indians head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mahela-jayawardene">Mahela Jayawardene</a> has confirmed that star pacer Jasprit Bumrah will miss the initial stages of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> 2025 due to injury. Bumrah, who suffered back spasms during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and has not played any cricket since.
Speaking at a press conference, Jayawardene provided an update on Bumrah&rsquo;s recovery, saying that they are awaiting feedback from the BCCI medical team. "Jasprit is currently at the NCA and has just started his progress. Everything is going well, but it's a day-to-day process. He is in good spirits, but not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world and has been a fantastic pro for us for many years," he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Jayawardene acknowledged that Mumbai Indians will have to find an alternative in Bumrah&rsquo;s absence. "We&rsquo;ll have to wait or find someone else to step up. The early part of the season allows us to try a few things and see how they work," he added.
<h2>SKY to lead MI in opening match</h2>
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav">Suryakumar Yadav</a> will be leading the Mumbai Indians (MI) in their opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) campaign against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings">Chennai Super Kings</a> (CSK) as announced on Wednesday (Mar 19). With MI set to take on CSK, regular skipper Hardik Pandya will serve a one-match suspension which from last season with Suryakumar set to deputise.
"Yeah, Surya obviously leads India as well. When I am not there, he is the ideal choice in this format (to lead). He is an exciting option as well," Hardik Pandya said on Wednesday.
Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, March 23, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Bumrah, who suffered back spasms during final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has been undergoing rehabilitation at NCA and has not played any cricket since

Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene has confirmed that star pacer Jasprit Bumrah will miss the initial stages of Indian Premier League 2025 due to injury. Bumrah, who suffered back spasms during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has been undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and has not played any cricket since. Speaking at a press conference, Jayawardene provided an update on Bumrah’s recovery, saying that they are awaiting feedback from the BCCI medical team. "Jasprit is currently at the NCA and has just started his progress. Everything is going well, but it's a day-to-day process. He is in good spirits, but not having him is a challenge. He is one of the best bowlers in the world and has been a fantastic pro for us for many years," he said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Jayawardene acknowledged that Mumbai Indians will have to find an alternative in Bumrah’s absence. "We’ll have to wait or find someone else to step up. The early part of the season allows us to try a few things and see how they work," he added. SKY to lead MI in opening match Meanwhile, Suryakumar Yadav will be leading the Mumbai Indians (MI) in their opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) campaign against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as announced on Wednesday (Mar 19). With MI set to take on CSK, regular skipper Hardik Pandya will serve a one-match suspension which from last season with Suryakumar set to deputise. "Yeah, Surya obviously leads India as well. When I am not there, he is the ideal choice in this format (to lead). He is an exciting option as well," Hardik Pandya said on Wednesday. Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL 2025 campaign against Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, March 23, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2025 | 'It is a challenge', admits MI coach Mahela Jayawardene on Jasprit Bumrah missing initial games

Ace India all-rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hardik-pandya" rel="dofollow">Hardik Pandya</a>, who replaced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> as IPL franchise Mumbai Indians captain last season, suffered wrath from the fans over this shocking decision, with countless present at each venue MI played at kept booing him left, right and centre. Ahead of the 18th edition, starting March 22, Pandya opened up about the whole episode and how he felt throughout.
With the team captain not feeling in his element, he failed to guide the side into the top four, as they finished at the bottom of the points table, with just four wins in 14 matches. Pandya performed below par that season, scoring 216 runs and picking just 11 wickets.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/massive-boost-for-rajasthan-royals-as-star-indian-duo-joins-squad-ahead-of-ipl-2025-sanju-samson-yashasvi-jaiswal-8859055" rel="dofollow">Massive boost for Rajasthan Royals as star Indian duo joins squad ahead of IPL 2025</a>
However, as the irony of life had it, the same crowd welcomed him with open arms after he helped India win the T20 World Cup in the Americas two months later, with a sea of supporters surrounding Team India&rsquo;s open bus parade near the Marine Drive and at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Opening up on the whole episode and how it made him feel, Pandya said, &ldquo;It's always about when you don't leave the battlefield."
"For me, it was about surviving, maybe not winning. That year was a year where, for the longest time, I had to hold my ground, not leave the battlefield, which was the ground. I realised how everything was panning out, that cricket will be my best friend, and he will get me out of it," Pandya said during an episode of JioStar's 'Superstars'.
<h2>'No better script'</h2>
Reflecting on how life played its part in turning the tables around, Pandya said he kept pushing, and all his hard work paid off, adding he couldn&rsquo;t have written a better script.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-srh-ishan-kishan-sends-warning-signs-with-star-show-in-intra-squad-games-watch-8858884" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: SRH&rsquo;s Ishan Kishan sends warning signs with star show in intra-squad games &ndash; Watch</a>
"Yeah, it kept, I kept pushing, kept pushing. And I think when all the hard work and everything came, I don't think I wouldn't be able to write a script, which it turned out to be in my life.&nbsp;
&ldquo;That six months of my phase, where winning the World Cup, and coming back and getting the kind of love we got. I think it was a complete 360-degree turnaround for me. And I think cricket was something which I knew that if I be persistent if I be honest with my work, if I be really hardworking, I think I'll be able to come out of this. But when I didn't know, as exactly said, it was written in the script by the God where it turned out to be two and a half months," he added.
Meanwhile, Pandya will be leading the Mumbai Indians side this season, where they face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the marquee clash on Sunday evening.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Ahead of the 18th edition, starting March 22, Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya opened up about the whole episode and how he felt throughout.

Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who replaced Rohit Sharma as IPL franchise Mumbai Indians captain last season, suffered wrath from the fans over this shocking decision, with countless present at each venue MI played at kept booing him left, right and centre. Ahead of the 18th edition, starting March 22, Pandya opened up about the whole episode and how he felt throughout. With the team captain not feeling in his element, he failed to guide the side into the top four, as they finished at the bottom of the points table, with just four wins in 14 matches. Pandya performed below par that season, scoring 216 runs and picking just 11 wickets. Also read | Massive boost for Rajasthan Royals as star Indian duo joins squad ahead of IPL 2025 However, as the irony of life had it, the same crowd welcomed him with open arms after he helped India win the T20 World Cup in the Americas two months later, with a sea of supporters surrounding Team India’s open bus parade near the Marine Drive and at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Opening up on the whole episode and how it made him feel, Pandya said, “It's always about when you don't leave the battlefield." "For me, it was about surviving, maybe not winning. That year was a year where, for the longest time, I had to hold my ground, not leave the battlefield, which was the ground. I realised how everything was panning out, that cricket will be my best friend, and he will get me out of it," Pandya said during an episode of JioStar's 'Superstars'. 'No better script' Reflecting on how life played its part in turning the tables around, Pandya said he kept pushing, and all his hard work paid off, adding he couldn’t have written a better script. Also read | IPL 2025: SRH’s Ishan Kishan sends warning signs with star show in intra-squad games – Watch "Yeah, it kept, I kept pushing, kept pushing. And I think when all the hard work and everything came, I don't think I wouldn't be able to write a script, which it turned out to be in my life. “That six months of my phase, where winning the World Cup, and coming back and getting the kind of love we got. I think it was a complete 360-degree turnaround for me. And I think cricket was something which I knew that if I be persistent if I be honest with my work, if I be really hardworking, I think I'll be able to come out of this. But when I didn't know, as exactly said, it was written in the script by the God where it turned out to be two and a half months," he added. Meanwhile, Pandya will be leading the Mumbai Indians side this season, where they face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the marquee clash on Sunday evening. (With inputs from agencies)

‘For me, it was about surviving,’ says Hardik Pandya on fans booing him in IPL 2024

With an infectious energy on the field and an unshakable calm under pressure, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/amelia-kerr">Amelia Kerr</a> has cemented herself as one of the most formidable spin-bowling all-rounders in the women's game. Her piercing blue eyes and ever-present smile mask the fierce competitor within&mdash;one who thrives in high-stakes encounters and revels in the art of deception with the ball.
The New Zealand and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians">Mumbai Indians</a> (MI) all-rounder has been riding a dream run, which reached another peak with MI&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/womens-premier-league">Women's Premier League</a> (WPL) title win. Kerr not only played a pivotal role in the franchise&rsquo;s triumph but also walked away as the Purple Cap holder for the most wickets in the season. Her 18 wickets at an average of 15.94, including a season-best of 5/38, solidified her dominance as a spin-bowling powerhouse.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mumbai-indians-reclaim-wpl-title-with-thrilling-win-as-delhi-capitals-lose-third-consecutive-final-8857123">Mumbai Indians reclaim WPL title with thrilling win as Delhi Capitals lose third consecutive final</a>
In the final against Delhi Capitals, Kerr delivered when it mattered most. Her spell of 2/25 in four overs derailed Delhi's chase of 150, removing the dangerous Jess Jonassen and Jemimah Rodrigues to ensure MI&rsquo;s grip on the game never loosened. Alongside her MI teammate Hayley Matthews, Kerr now holds the record for most wickets in a single WPL season.
<h2>Kerr's impact is undeniable&nbsp;</h2>
Her brilliance in franchise cricket is just the latest chapter in what has been an extraordinary run. The 2024 ICC Women&rsquo;s T20 World Cup saw Kerr at her absolute best, propelling New Zealand to their maiden title in the format. A defining performance in the final against South Africa&mdash;a well-paced 43 off 38 balls and match-winning figures of 3/24&mdash;earned her the 'Player of the Match' award. Throughout the tournament, she was the bowler every batter feared, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with 15 scalps at an astonishing average of 7.33.
Her exploits did not go unnoticed. Kerr was named the ICC Women's T20I Player of the Year for 2024, a fitting recognition for a year in which she made 387 runs and took 29 wickets&mdash;the most by any New Zealand woman in a single calendar year. With a bowling strike rate of just 13.6 across 18 matches, she was a constant menace, weaving webs around batters with her tactical brilliance and sharp turn.
Amelia Kerr is not just a bowler who takes wickets; she&rsquo;s an architect of collapses, a match-winner in her own right. Whether it&rsquo;s the grand stage of a World Cup final or the electric atmosphere of the WPL, one thing is certain&mdash;when the stakes are high, Amelia Kerr delivers. And with the kind of form she&rsquo;s in, her purple patch is far from over.

Sports, Cricket: Kerr not only played a pivotal role in the franchise’s triumph but also walked away as the Purple Cap holder for the most wickets in the season

With an infectious energy on the field and an unshakable calm under pressure, Amelia Kerr has cemented herself as one of the most formidable spin-bowling all-rounders in the women's game. Her piercing blue eyes and ever-present smile mask the fierce competitor within—one who thrives in high-stakes encounters and revels in the art of deception with the ball. The New Zealand and Mumbai Indians (MI) all-rounder has been riding a dream run, which reached another peak with MI’s Women's Premier League (WPL) title win. Kerr not only played a pivotal role in the franchise’s triumph but also walked away as the Purple Cap holder for the most wickets in the season. Her 18 wickets at an average of 15.94, including a season-best of 5/38, solidified her dominance as a spin-bowling powerhouse. Also Read: Mumbai Indians reclaim WPL title with thrilling win as Delhi Capitals lose third consecutive final In the final against Delhi Capitals, Kerr delivered when it mattered most. Her spell of 2/25 in four overs derailed Delhi's chase of 150, removing the dangerous Jess Jonassen and Jemimah Rodrigues to ensure MI’s grip on the game never loosened. Alongside her MI teammate Hayley Matthews, Kerr now holds the record for most wickets in a single WPL season. Kerr's impact is undeniable Her brilliance in franchise cricket is just the latest chapter in what has been an extraordinary run. The 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup saw Kerr at her absolute best, propelling New Zealand to their maiden title in the format. A defining performance in the final against South Africa—a well-paced 43 off 38 balls and match-winning figures of 3/24—earned her the 'Player of the Match' award. Throughout the tournament, she was the bowler every batter feared, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with 15 scalps at an astonishing average of 7.33. Her exploits did not go unnoticed. Kerr was named the ICC Women's T20I Player of the Year for 2024, a fitting recognition for a year in which she made 387 runs and took 29 wickets—the most by any New Zealand woman in a single calendar year. With a bowling strike rate of just 13.6 across 18 matches, she was a constant menace, weaving webs around batters with her tactical brilliance and sharp turn. Amelia Kerr is not just a bowler who takes wickets; she’s an architect of collapses, a match-winner in her own right. Whether it’s the grand stage of a World Cup final or the electric atmosphere of the WPL, one thing is certain—when the stakes are high, Amelia Kerr delivers. And with the kind of form she’s in, her purple patch is far from over.

WPL 2025 | The Kerr effect: How Amelia became most feared spinner in women’s cricket

Meg Lanning&rsquo;s emotions were on full display as the final of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/womens-premier-league">Women's Premier League</a> slipped away from her team. A tear welled up in her eye, a fleeting moment of heartbreak after coming so close to victory. But as soon as the camera turned to her, she quickly wiped it away, replacing it with a composed smile. It was a brief yet powerful glimpse into the mindset of a champion&mdash;someone who feels the pain of defeat but chooses to face it with grace and dignity.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/meg-lanning">Meg Lanning</a> has nothing left to prove. She is, without a doubt, one of the greatest captains in cricket history. A six-time ICC trophy-winning leader, she has steered Australia to five T20 World Cup titles (2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023) and an ODI World Cup triumph in 2022. Add to that a Commonwealth Games gold medal (2022) and multiple domestic trophies, and you get a cricketer whose name is synonymous with success.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/nz-vs-pak-t20-series-black-caps-romp-to-nine-wicket-win-in-first-match-8857753">NZ vs PAK T20 series: Black Caps romp to nine-wicket win in first match</a>
Yet, despite all her achievements, there is one trophy that continues to slip through her fingers&mdash;the Women&rsquo;s Premier League (WPL). For the third consecutive season, Lanning led the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals">Delhi Capitals</a> to the final, only to see her team falter when it mattered the most.
<h2>How Delhi Capitals fell short in final</h2>
The night was set for a grand showdown. Under the bright lights of the Brabourne Stadium, Meg Lanning led her Delhi Capitals onto the field, determined to end their finals curse. Facing them were the defending champions from the first season, Mumbai Indians, led by the ever-composed Harmanpreet Kaur. It was a battle of two of the fiercest teams in the Women's Premier League, but as the night unfolded, it turned into yet another heartbreak for Delhi.
Meg Lanning won the toss and put Mumbai into bat, trusting her bowlers to give them an edge. Her decision seemed justified early on when Marizanne Kapp struck twice in the powerplay, reducing Mumbai to 29/2. The Capitals' bowlers were on fire, and for a moment, it looked like they had their rivals pinned down.
But then, Mumbai&rsquo;s captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, stepped up. Alongside Nat Sciver-Brunt, she weathered the storm, nudging singles and punishing loose deliveries. Their 89-run partnership turned the tide. Harmanpreet&rsquo;s calculated aggression, combined with Sciver-Brunt&rsquo;s calmness, helped Mumbai post a competitive total of 149/7. Delhi&rsquo;s bowlers had done well, but the feeling in the camp was clear&mdash;this was far from an easy chase.
<h2>Delhi&rsquo;s shaky start</h2>
Chasing 150 in a high-pressure final, Delhi needed a solid start. But what they got was the exact opposite.&nbsp;Shafali Verma fell in the very first over, trying to take on Saika Ishaque but mistiming her shot straight to mid-off. Meg Lanning, the pillar of Delhi&rsquo;s batting, looked determined to anchor the innings, but she too was undone by Amelia Kerr&rsquo;s sharp turn, trapped in front for 17. The scoreboard read 44/4, and the Capitals were sinking fast.
Jemimah Rodrigues and Marizanne Kapp tried to steady the ship, stitching together a fighting stand. Kapp played some crisp strokes, and Jemimah rotated the strike well, keeping the hopes alive. But just as the partnership was gaining momentum, Nat Sciver-Brunt returned to break it, removing Rodrigues for 30.
With 28 needed off the last two overs, the pressure was immense. Kapp fought hard, hitting a couple of boundaries, but the task proved too steep. Delhi fell agonisingly short, finishing at 141/8&mdash;just eight runs away from glory.
As the Mumbai Indians celebrated their back-to-back WPL titles, Meg Lanning stood motionless at the dugout, her eyes reflecting a mix of disappointment and disbelief. She had led from the front all season, yet the trophy continued to elude her team.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s tough,&rdquo; she admitted later in the press conference. &ldquo;We fought hard, but we didn&rsquo;t execute well in key moments. Credit to Mumbai, they held their nerve when it mattered most.&rdquo;
For Delhi Capitals, this was their third straight loss in a WPL final. The pain of coming so close, yet falling short once again, was evident on every player&rsquo;s face. They had given it their all, but destiny had other plans.
As the dust settled on another dramatic final, one thing was clear&mdash;Delhi Capitals would be back, hungrier than ever. But for now, the night belonged to Mumbai, and Meg Lanning was left to ponder what might have been.

Sports, Cricket: For the second consecutive season, Meg Lanning led the Delhi Capitals to the WPL final, only to see her team falter when it mattered the most

Meg Lanning’s emotions were on full display as the final of the Women's Premier League slipped away from her team. A tear welled up in her eye, a fleeting moment of heartbreak after coming so close to victory. But as soon as the camera turned to her, she quickly wiped it away, replacing it with a composed smile. It was a brief yet powerful glimpse into the mindset of a champion—someone who feels the pain of defeat but chooses to face it with grace and dignity. Meg Lanning has nothing left to prove. She is, without a doubt, one of the greatest captains in cricket history. A six-time ICC trophy-winning leader, she has steered Australia to five T20 World Cup titles (2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023) and an ODI World Cup triumph in 2022. Add to that a Commonwealth Games gold medal (2022) and multiple domestic trophies, and you get a cricketer whose name is synonymous with success. Also Read: NZ vs PAK T20 series: Black Caps romp to nine-wicket win in first match Yet, despite all her achievements, there is one trophy that continues to slip through her fingers—the Women’s Premier League (WPL). For the third consecutive season, Lanning led the Delhi Capitals to the final, only to see her team falter when it mattered the most. How Delhi Capitals fell short in final The night was set for a grand showdown. Under the bright lights of the Brabourne Stadium, Meg Lanning led her Delhi Capitals onto the field, determined to end their finals curse. Facing them were the defending champions from the first season, Mumbai Indians, led by the ever-composed Harmanpreet Kaur. It was a battle of two of the fiercest teams in the Women's Premier League, but as the night unfolded, it turned into yet another heartbreak for Delhi. Meg Lanning won the toss and put Mumbai into bat, trusting her bowlers to give them an edge. Her decision seemed justified early on when Marizanne Kapp struck twice in the powerplay, reducing Mumbai to 29/2. The Capitals' bowlers were on fire, and for a moment, it looked like they had their rivals pinned down. But then, Mumbai’s captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, stepped up. Alongside Nat Sciver-Brunt, she weathered the storm, nudging singles and punishing loose deliveries. Their 89-run partnership turned the tide. Harmanpreet’s calculated aggression, combined with Sciver-Brunt’s calmness, helped Mumbai post a competitive total of 149/7. Delhi’s bowlers had done well, but the feeling in the camp was clear—this was far from an easy chase. Delhi’s shaky start Chasing 150 in a high-pressure final, Delhi needed a solid start. But what they got was the exact opposite. Shafali Verma fell in the very first over, trying to take on Saika Ishaque but mistiming her shot straight to mid-off. Meg Lanning, the pillar of Delhi’s batting, looked determined to anchor the innings, but she too was undone by Amelia Kerr’s sharp turn, trapped in front for 17. The scoreboard read 44/4, and the Capitals were sinking fast. Jemimah Rodrigues and Marizanne Kapp tried to steady the ship, stitching together a fighting stand. Kapp played some crisp strokes, and Jemimah rotated the strike well, keeping the hopes alive. But just as the partnership was gaining momentum, Nat Sciver-Brunt returned to break it, removing Rodrigues for 30. With 28 needed off the last two overs, the pressure was immense. Kapp fought hard, hitting a couple of boundaries, but the task proved too steep. Delhi fell agonisingly short, finishing at 141/8—just eight runs away from glory. As the Mumbai Indians celebrated their back-to-back WPL titles, Meg Lanning stood motionless at the dugout, her eyes reflecting a mix of disappointment and disbelief. She had led from the front all season, yet the trophy continued to elude her team. “It’s tough,” she admitted later in the press conference. “We fought hard, but we didn’t execute well in key moments. Credit to Mumbai, they held their nerve when it mattered most.” For Delhi Capitals, this was their third straight loss in a WPL final. The pain of coming so close, yet falling short once again, was evident on every player’s face. They had given it their all, but destiny had other plans. As the dust settled on another dramatic final, one thing was clear—Delhi Capitals would be back, hungrier than ever. But for now, the night belonged to Mumbai, and Meg Lanning was left to ponder what might have been.

WPL 2025 | Meg Lanning: The champion who still waits for a WPL trophy

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