The Gujarat Titans’ (GT) adept bowling performance helped contain Mumbai Indians (MI) to a moderate 155 for 8 after reaching 97 for 2, despite some early fielding lapses. Notably, Rashid Khan, recovering from a previous expensive spell, delivered 4-0-21-1, while R Sai Kishore claimed key wickets, dismissing Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya. Over the final 9.3 overs, GT restricted MI to just 58 runs, even amidst an 18-run flourish in the closing over.
Beyond the spinning attack, the pacers set an early tone. Mohammed Siraj made an early breakthrough by removing Ryan Rickleton in the very first over. Meanwhile, Arshad Khan continued to challenge Rohit Sharma with his left-arm seam, and Prasidh Krishna stayed atop the wicket-takers’ list, securing his 20th scalp. Remarkably, three dropped catches – involving Will Jacks and Suryakumar – offered MI their only productive stretch.
Suryakumar Yadav extended his streak of reaching beyond 25 to 12 consecutive T20 matches; the record stands at 13. Alongside, Will Jacks achieved his first half-century for MI as they put on 71 runs in a little over seven overs. However, the spinners remained threatening, as Rashid Khan nearly trapped Jacks lbw multiple times, eliciting several false strokes before finally having him caught deep.
Meanwhile, Sai Kishore tackled a persistent Suryakumar by altering his approach, eventually inducing a vital catch at long-off. his fellow TITANS showed aggressive intent from the field, welcoming Hardik Pandya with attacking positions. Sai Kishore responded with exceptional control, leading to a top-edged slog sweep.
Prasidh Krishna and Gerald Coetzee capitalised further, claiming Tilak Varma and Naman Dhir swiftly. Rashid Khan underlined his return to form with an economical 18th over. Finally, Corbin Bosch nudged MI past the 150-mark with two sixes off Prasidh in the final over.
This encounter highlights GT’s strategic mastery in both spin and pace, alongside their agility to contain formidable batsmen, despite some missed opportunities in the field.
