Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans face off in the IPL 2025 Eliminator at Mullanpur, with the winner advancing to Qualifier 2 against Punjab Kings.Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and elected to bat first, aiming to set a challenging total on a pitch that has recently favored bowlers, as seen in Qualifier 1.
"Hardik Pandya, the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain, has chosen to bat first in the IPL 2025 Eliminator against Gujarat Titans (GT)."The Mumbai Indians have bolstered their lineup with the addition of Jonny Bairstow, making his first IPL appearance in three years after being signed for ₹5.25 crore specifically for the playoffs. Bairstow, alongside Rohit Sharma, provided a strong opening partnership, adding 84 runs.
"Jonny Bairstow is set to make his first IPL appearance in three years, having been signed by Mumbai Indians for ?5.25 crore specifically for the Playoffs."Gujarat Titans, a relatively young franchise with two IPL finals and one title, rely on key players like Sai Sudharsan, the current Orange Cap holder with 679 runs in 14 matches. However, they face the challenge of adapting to a bowler-friendly surface at Mullanpur.
"While GT boasts a strong 5-2 head-to-head record against MI (including four consecutive wins), their ability to adapt to this unfamiliar and potentially bowler-friendly surface will be key."Mumbai Indians have also adjusted their bowling attack, bringing in seam-bowling allrounder Raj Bawa for Deepak Chahar, who is recovering from a hamstring injury. Gujarat Titans introduced spin-bowling allrounder Washington Sundar, anticipating dry conditions.
The stakes are high as the winner will face Punjab Kings, who were recently defeated by Royal Challengers Bengaluru on a spicy pitch in Qualifier 1.
"The winner of this clash will face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2."This Eliminator match is crucial for both teams aiming to inch closer to the IPL 2025 title, with Mumbai Indians eyeing a record sixth championship and Gujarat Titans seeking to add to their growing legacy.
Key stats and players to watch include:- Sai Sudharsan: 679 runs in 14 matches, IPL 2025 Orange Cap holder
- Shubman Gill: 649 runs at 54.08 average, strike rate 156.39
- Suryakumar Yadav: 640 runs at 71.11 average, strike rate 167.98
- Jasprit Bumrah: 17 wickets in 10 matches, average 14.65, economy 6.33
The Eliminator promises a high-stakes contest with both teams relying on their star performers and strategic adjustments to secure a spot against Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2.
Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans clash in the IPL 2025 Eliminator at Mullanpur, with the winner advancing to face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2. Mumbai, led by Hardik Pandya, chose to bat first, while key players like Jonny Bairstow debut. Gujarat Titans seek to leverage their strong head-to-head record.
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