 "Hardik Pandya lauded Jasprit Bumrah after their win over GT. Image: AFP")
Mumbai Indians beat Gujarat Titans in a thrilling IPL 2025 Eliminator on Friday night. After electing to bat first, MI posted a mammoth total of 228/5 in 20 overs, thanks to their openers Rohit Sharma and Jonny Bairstow. GT started their chase cautiously but gained momentum as the innings progressed.
Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar built a crucial partnership after some early blows. However, Mumbai’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, made a brilliant comeback in the death overs to hand GT a 20-run defeat. Thanks to the win, Mumbai advanced to Qualifier 2, which they will play against Punjab Kings on 1 June.
Hardik Pandya compares Bumrah to Mumbai housing prices
After the match, MI skipper Hardik Pandya couldn’t stop praising Jasprit Bumrah, calling him their biggest luxury. Hardik said that Bumrah is like Mumbai’s housing prices, which are too high and unaffordable.
“It’s very simple. Whenever you think the game is going away, just bring him (Bumrah). When you have that it’s a luxury. It’s like Mumbai housing prices - he’s that expensive,” Hardik Pandya said.
Hardik was all praise for Bairstow, who made an instant impact on debut for the Mumbai Indians with his quickfire 47 off 22 balls. The MI captain also lauded Rohit Sharma for his 81-run knock in such a crucial match for them.
“The way Jonny batted and started.. for him to make his debut for us, it’s a special franchise, coming in and playing the way he played. The way Ro batted. He took his time and once he got into rhythm, it was beautiful,” Hardik added.
MI set up Qualifier 2 clash with Punjab Kings
Rohit was named the Player of the Match for his sensational knock. During the innings, he also reached 7000 IPL runs and 300 sixes in the league. Meanwhile, the former MI captain was involved in a record partnership with Bairstow, making it the third-highest in IPL playoffs.
“Good day for us as a team. I do understand the importance of playing this eliminator and going through this and taking the next step forward. Really proud of a complete team effort. When I play the game, I try to do my best keeping everything aside. Making sure how I can do the job for the team. I had to make the most of the luck. I am glad I could do that. Get the team into a good position,” Rohit said.