Rohit Sharma was dismissed by left-arm pacer Arshad Khan (PTI Photo)
In a thrilling IPL 2025 Eliminator at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, the Mumbai Indians (MI) showcased their championship pedigree by defeating the Gujarat Titans (GT) by 20 runs. This victory propels MI into Qualifier 2, keeping their aspirations for a sixth IPL title alive.
Mumbai Indians’ Commanding Batting Display
Opting to bat first, MI posted a formidable total of 228/5. The innings was anchored by skipper Rohit Sharma, who delivered a masterclass with 81 runs off 50 balls, including nine fours and four sixes . His innings was complemented by Jonny Bairstow’s explosive 47 off 22 balls, marking a significant contribution in his debut for MI . Suryakumar Yadav added 33 runs, while Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya chipped in with 25 and an unbeaten 22 runs respectively, ensuring a challenging total for GT.
Bairstow, replacing Ryan Rickelton who departed for international duties, made an immediate impact. His aggressive approach set the tone for MI’s innings, allowing Rohit to settle and build his innings. The duo’s 84-run opening partnership laid a solid foundation, which the middle order capitalized on to post a daunting target.
Gujarat Titans’ Valiant Chase Falls Short
IPL 2025, Eliminator, GT vs MI: Mumbai Indians beat Gujarat Titans | (Photo: ©IPL/X)
In response, GT’s chase was immediately hampered by the early dismissal of their captain, Shubman Gill, who was trapped LBW by Trent Boult for just 1 run . However, Sai Sudharsan, the tournament’s leading run-scorer, mounted a resilient effort, scoring 80 runs off 49 balls and forming an 84-run partnership with Washington Sundar (48) . Despite their efforts, GT’s innings concluded at 208/6, falling short of the target.
Sudharsan’s innings was a testament to his consistency throughout the season, taking his total tally to 759 runs, the highest in IPL 2025 . His composed knock kept GT in the hunt, but the lack of substantial contributions from other batsmen and disciplined bowling from MI thwarted their chase.
Key Performances and Turning Points
- Rohit Sharma: His 81-run innings was pivotal, earning him the Player of the Match award. Notably, he reached the milestone of 7000 IPL runs during this innings .
- Jonny Bairstow: His quickfire 47 provided MI with a strong start, setting the tone for the innings.
- Sai Sudharsan: Continued his exceptional form with a valiant 80, leading GT’s chase and solidifying his position as the season’s top scorer .
- Jasprit Bumrah and Richard Gleeson: Their crucial wickets in the death overs curtailed GT’s momentum. Bumrah’s dismissal of Sundar and Gleeson’s removal of Sudharsan were instrumental in sealing the victory .
- Ashwani Kumar: The uncapped bowler delivered a commendable performance under pressure, showcasing his potential on the big stage .
Looking Ahead
With this victory, MI advances to face the Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2, vying for a spot in the IPL 2025 final against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru . The team’s blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent positions them as strong contenders for the title.
As the tournament progresses, MI’s momentum and depth in both batting and bowling will be crucial. The upcoming clash against Punjab Kings promises to be a riveting encounter, with both teams eyeing a place in the final.
