01 Apr, 2025 | 05:06 AM

Mumbai Indians (MI) recorded their first win of the 2025 IPL season, securing an eight-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Wankhede Stadium. The win extended MI's dominant record against KKR at home to 10-2, with a standout performance from debutant fast bowler Ashwani Kumar, who made an immediate impact on the IPL stage.

Ashwani's Dream Debut:

Ashwani, 23, had played just four T20 matches before this encounter, and his nerves were evident when he was told he would make his debut for MI. Opting to skip lunch as a superstitious routine, Ashwani turned in one of the most memorable IPL debuts, picking up 4 wickets for 24 runs, the best figures by an Indian on debut in the competition’s history. His first ball of the match made an immediate impact, dismissing KKR’s captain Ajinkya Rahane, and he went on to claim the wickets of Rinku Singh and Andre Russell to seal KKR's collapse to 116 all out.

Despite having an orthodox action and bowling at speeds in the early to mid-130 kph range—considered moderate in T20 cricket—Ashwani's exceptional control over his length left the KKR batters frustrated. He was particularly effective in adjusting his lengths in high-pressure situations, surprising even experienced batters like Rinku and Russell. His ability to deliver key wickets under pressure showcased why he had been highly regarded for his death-bowling skills in domestic cricket.

Trent Boult's Early Breakthroughs:

While Ashwani stole the show with the ball, Trent Boult’s early breakthrough continued his exceptional IPL record. For the 30th time in the tournament, Boult made an immediate impact, dismissing Sunil Narine in the opening over. Deepak Chahar also played his part, removing Quinton de Kock for a well-placed catch at mid-off, further putting KKR on the back foot. Despite aggressive responses from KKR's middle order, they could not recover from the early wickets and were eventually bowled out for 116.

Rickelton Leads the Chase:

In reply, MI had little trouble chasing down the modest target of 117, thanks to an assured 62* from debutant Ryan Rickelton. Although Rickelton struggled initially, beaten by the first few balls he faced, he found his rhythm after Harshit Rana bowled a slower ball on the half-volley, which he dispatched for a boundary. Rickelton brought up his half-century with a six off Narine and anchored the chase comfortably alongside Suryakumar Yadav, who finished the match with a six to seal MI’s victory.

However, there were still concerns for MI as captain Rohit Sharma’s struggles with the bat continued. He was dismissed for just 13, adding to his growing list of underwhelming performances. Despite his form issues, MI’s win was built on the back of Ashwani’s explosive debut and Rickelton’s composed knock.

With the win, MI will be looking to build momentum in IPL 2025, with their next fixture offering an opportunity to continue their positive start to the season.