New Delhi: Mumbai Indians won their opening match of an Indian Premier League edition for the first time after 13 consecutive losses, taking a weight of their shoulders.
The five-time champions chased down a 221-run target set by Kolkata Knight Riders to win by six wickets at Wankhede Stadium to win in their opening game for the first time since 2012.
Skipper Hardik Pandya was glad that finally the jink was broken and they could get a winning start for their quest for what would be a record sixth title.
“Obviously it’s been a long wait. Every time we’ve come we wanted to start the season on a high. The whole group is very glad we were able to do it,” the all-rounder said after their victory.
The hosts were carted for runs by KKR as they posted a healthy 220 for four batting first but Mumbai reached their target with five balls to spare, with Pandya saying he was confident throughout their chase.
“Modern cricket, plus we’ve seen what this wicket plays like. Credit to the bowlers, not letting KKR fly away to 240s or 250s. Those become tough targets but 220 is always chaseable.”
The right hander also lauded Mumbai’s opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton, who scored 148 in only 72 balls to set up the win.
“Rohit and Ryan were outstanding. Ryan has done very well for us last year and whenever I see Ro (Rohit) play some shots, it opens everyone’s mouth. Nothing short of excellent, nothing short of outstanding.”
Most wins against an opponent at a venue in the IPL
11 – MI vs KKR at Wankhede (13 mats)*
9 – KKR vs PBKS at Kolkata (14 mats)
9 – SRH vs PBKS at Hyderabad (10 mats)
Most wins against a team in the IPL
25 – MI vs KKR (36 mats)*
21 – CSK vs RCB (35 mats)
21 – KKR vs PBKS (35 mats)
21 – MI vs CSK (39 mats)
21 – MI vs DC (37 mats)