01 Apr, 2025 | 03:45 AM

Ryan Rickelton's maiden IPL half-century helped Mumbai Indians (MI) secure their first win of the 2025 season, defeating Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by eight wickets at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday. Rickelton, who had struggled with scores of 13 and 6 in his first two innings, struck an unbeaten 62 off 41 balls, easing the nerves that come with the pressure of performing in the IPL.

Rickelton admitted that the pressure, both internally and externally, was immense as he faced his debut IPL season. "The pressure factor internally is big but externally is huge," he said after the match. "I just wanted to get a score and ease the nerves down."

It wasn't an easy start for Rickelton, who found himself battling tough conditions and challenging bowlers, including KKR’s Spencer Johnson. "I knew it was going to swing around a little bit," he recalled. "I didn’t expect it to do that much for a period of time. Our bowlers adjusted really well, and our batters adjusted really well too."

Rickelton's performance was pivotal in MI's chase, as they successfully pursued a relatively low target. He acknowledged the relief of contributing to the team's cause, which was crucial after the team’s challenging start to the season.

"The first two games were tricky, on some tough wickets, but to get out here in Mumbai and get through that was really pleasing," he said. "To get two points on the board is great for the team."

As an overseas player and opening the batting alongside MI captain Rohit Sharma, Rickelton faced heightened expectations. The South African's calm under pressure drew praise from MI's coaching staff. Sanjay Bangar, MI's batting coach, compared Rickelton's approach to that of Quinton de Kock, another South African wicketkeeper-batter with IPL experience.

"He batted in a subcontinental manner during the Champions Trophy, particularly against spin, and that's something we saw today as well," Bangar said, noting the similarities in their techniques. "He's very good against spin, stays low, and adapts to conditions well."

Rickelton’s knock, which included five sixes, was not just a personal triumph but also a team effort. Captain Hardik Pandya emphasized the need for increased intensity on their home ground, and MI responded by lifting their game, despite a few dropped catches. "The intensity was better today," Rickelton said. "It was about stepping up, not just with the bat but also with the fielding."

The South African opener also reflected on the unique challenges of playing in the IPL. "The standards are incredibly high, and the conditions keep changing. It’s a different beast on its own. Mentally getting my head around that has been tough," he admitted. "Luckily, having a few familiar faces around has made the transition easier."

For Rickelton, this knock marks a significant step in adjusting to the pressures of the IPL. "It’s a massive relief," he said, acknowledging the challenges that come with representing a team like Mumbai Indians. "Now I just need to keep working, adapt, and try to build on this performance."

With this crucial win and a more settled approach at the crease, Rickelton looks forward to building on his IPL debut season, knowing the hard work ahead will be just as important as his breakthrough innings.