Ashwani Kumar Shines as MI Crush KKR in IPL 2025 Showdown
Last night at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Indians (MI) put up a dominant performance, securing a resounding eight-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 12th match of IPL 2025. However, the post-match discussion was not just about MI’s triumph but also about KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane’s blunt assessment of his team’s batting failure.
Speaking candidly at the post-match presentation, Rahane did not hold back while reflecting on KKR’s underwhelming performance. He pointed out that the team struggled to build partnerships and failed to capitalize on a pitch that was good for batting. According to him, a target of 180-190 would have been ideal, but losing four wickets in the powerplay left them reeling, making it nearly impossible to post a competitive total. He acknowledged the bowlers' efforts but admitted that defending such a low score was never going to be easy.
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KKR was bundled out for just 116 runs in 16.2 overs, a total that proved to be nowhere near enough. The highlight of the match, however, was MI’s debutant left-arm seamer Ashwani Kumar, who made an explosive entry into the IPL by registering a historic four-wicket haul. He became the first Indian bowler to achieve this feat on debut, dismantling KKR’s top order and leaving them in tatters. His spell ensured that MI had a straightforward chase ahead of them.
With just 117 runs to chase, MI cruised to victory in the 13th over, thanks to a brilliant knock by Ryan Rickelton. The wicketkeeper-batter played a match-winning innings, scoring 62 off 41 balls, smashing four boundaries and five sixes along the way. While KKR’s Andre Russell managed to pick up two wickets—those of Rohit Sharma and Will Jacks—the rest of the bowling attack failed to make an impact.
This loss raises serious concerns for KKR, especially with their batting lineup failing to deliver. On the other hand, MI’s confidence will be sky-high, particularly with Ashwani Kumar’s sensational debut adding firepower to their already formidable squad. As the IPL 2025 season progresses, KKR will need to regroup quickly, while MI will look to build on this momentum and solidify their place in the points table.
The IPL never fails to bring drama, and this match was no exception. With high-stakes clashes ahead, it will be interesting to see how both teams respond to their latest performances!
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