Mumbai Indians’ 99-run win over Gujarat Titans was lauded. Tilak VermaThe brilliance of, but captain Hardik Pandya He explained that key tactical calls with the ball also played a decisive role. One of the biggest talking points was the decision to hand over the new ball. Jaspreet Bumraha move that paid off immediately as he took the very first delivery to remove Sai Sudharsan. It was also an important moment for Along with Personally, as it was his first wicket of the season, coming in his sixth match. Addressing the long-standing question of why Bumrah doesn’t usually bowl the first over, Hardik offered a clear explanation. “I’ve seen a lot of people go, why did Jesse never bowl, but if you look, it’s been 138. [151] I think 8 or 9 times Jasprit has bowled the first over. So I don’t think it’s Hardik Pandya’s problem. He asserted that Bumrah’s role was defined by influence rather than convention. “It’s just that Jasprit Bumrah is so special that you use him wherever you need him for the team, not when you start. But yes, we realized one thing today, that we really want to make an impact with the new ball, and there’s nobody better than him.” This early breakthrough set the tone for MI’s dominance, as GT never recovered from the setback and were eventually bowled out for 100. Hardik also highlighted how important the win was for the group, especially given their struggles this season and the challenge of playing in Ahmedabad. “It’s always difficult to go away and win. Ahmedabad has been something that is very difficult for us as Mumbai Indians. And yes, we just played good cricket. It feels very special because it was needed a lot.” The MI captain was equally vocal about the turning point with the bat, showing how his message to Tilak Verma during the strategic break was simple and straightforward. “I felt that having talent like Tilak, they really don’t have to worry too much. The only message I kept giving him was that you just look at the ball and hit the ball no matter what. I believe the kind of ball that comes off his bat is really something special. Acknowledging the intensity of the moment, Hardik said, “Many times I went so hard that I got kind of dizzy. But it was much needed for the group, Tilak and Mumbai Indians.” He especially praised the young players who stepped into the game to win. “Truly amazing from the youngsters. Mumbai Indians needed it as a group. Debutant Kirsh, coming in and bowling in the right field, showing the right intent. Ashwini coming in and bowling, really amazing, taking a 4-fer. It changed the momentum for us. Special mention to Naman.” For Hardik, it was more than just a win. It felt like a change of pace.
