Thrashing Kolkata Knight Riders by 8 Wickets
By: PR Network
Mumbai: Mumbai Indians (MI) finally got their IPL 2025 campaign off the mark with a resounding eight-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday. This comprehensive win was just what the doctor ordered for MI, who had been struggling to find their footing in the tournament.
MI’s debutant pacer Ashwani Kumar set the tone for the match, picking up four crucial wickets to restrict KKR to a paltry 116 in 16.2 overs. Kumar’s impressive debut was highlighted by the dismissal of KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane with his very first delivery. This early breakthrough put KKR on the back foot, and they never quite recovered.
In response, MI’s Ryan Rickelton led the charge with a blistering 33-ball half-century, guiding his team to a comfortable victory in just 12.5 overs. Rickelton’s innings was marked by some exquisite shots, including a few crisp boundaries and a towering six. He was well-supported by Suryakumar Yadav, who played a cameo of 21 runs.
Key Performances
-Ashwani Kumar: 4/24 in 4 overs
-Ryan Rickelton: 53* off 33 balls
uryakumar Yadav: 21 off 15 balls
KKR’s Struggles Continue
KKR’s batting lineup, which boasts the likes of Quinton de Kock and Andre Russell, failed to fire once again. Only Angkrish Raghuvanshi showed some resistance with a 26-run knock, but it was too little, too late. KKR’s batting woes have been a major concern for the team, and they will need to address this issue if they hope to make a deep run in the tournament.
MI’s Much-Needed Win
The victory marks a much-needed turnaround for MI, who had lost their first two games of the season. The win lifts MI off the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table, while KKR’s defeat sees them slip to third place. This win will be a huge confidence booster for MI, and they will look to carry this momentum forward in their upcoming matches.
Scorecard
Mumbai Indians: 121/2 (12.5 overs)
Kolkata Knight Riders: 116/10 (16.2 overs)
