MI’s Opening Match Woes Continue: Pandya’s Captaincy Debut Ends in Defeat against GT in IPL 2024 Opener

The opening match of IPL 2024 witnessed Mumbai Indians facing a six-run loss against Gujarat Titans, marking their 12th consecutive defeat in season openers. It was a significant occasion for Mumbai as it marked Hardik Pandya’s first game as captain, yet it ended in disappointment amidst constant jeers from the crowd in Ahmedabad.

Chasing a target of 169 set by Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians found themselves needing 19 runs off the final over. Pandya, on strike, showcased his prowess by smashing a six and a four off the first two deliveries. However, Umesh Yadav fought back for Gujarat Titans, dismissing Pandya off the third ball and adding another wicket in the following delivery. Despite the early setback, Rohit Sharma and Dewald Brevis provided hope for Mumbai, putting them in a commanding position. Brevis contributed significantly after Azmatullah Omarzai’s early breakthroughs, partnering with Rohit to steer Mumbai back on track. However, Rashid Khan and Mohit Sharma’s tight bowling in the latter overs halted Mumbai’s momentum. Brevis eventually fell for a valiant 46 off 38, leaving Mumbai struggling to recover. Consequently, Shubman Gill celebrated his first win as captain of the Gujarat Titans.

Earlier in the match, Mumbai Indians won the toss and elected to bowl first, a decision made in Pandya’s inaugural game as captain. Despite Gujarat Titans looking poised for a formidable total, Jasprit Bumrah’s brilliance restricted them to 168/6. Pandya chose to lead the Mumbai attack himself, with his first over conceding 11 runs. Surprisingly, he returned for the third over instead of handing the ball to Bumrah, who eventually struck with his trademark yorker to dismiss Wriddhiman Saha. Mumbai’s spinners, Piyush Chawla and Shams Mulani, further dented Gujarat’s innings by removing key batsmen like Shubman Gill. However, strong contributions from Sai Sudharsan, Azmatullah Omarzai, and David Miller helped Gujarat Titans post a competitive total. Bumrah returned in the 17th over to dismiss Miller and Sudharsan, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Mumbai’s defeat.