Table of Contents
In a dramatic encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Mumbai Indians (MI) pulled off a stunning comeback victory against Delhi Capitals (DC) by 12 runs. The match, which saw a scintillating return to form for DC’s Karun Nair after three years, was also marred by an on-field argument between the veteran batter and MI’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah.
Asked to bat first, MI delivered a strong batting performance. Openers Ryan Rickelton (41 off 25) and Suryakumar Yadav (40 off 28) provided a quick start, hitting two sixes each. Despite Kuldeep Yadav’s economical spell (2-23), Tilak Varma anchored the innings with a crucial 74, including six fours and three sixes. Naman Dhir’s explosive 38 not out off 17, with two sixes, and his rapid 62-run stand with Varma propelled MI to a commanding total of 205/5.
Karun Nair plays a heroic knock amid collision with Jasprit Bumrah
Facing a challenging target, Delhi Capitals stumbled early with Jake Fraser-McGurk’s golden duck. However, Karun Nair stole the show with a stunning comeback, smashing 89 off 40 balls, including 12 fours and 5 sixes, and partnering with Abhishek Porel (33) for a vital 119 runs. Nair’s innings was marked by a contentious moment with Jasprit Bumrah, leading to an on-field exchange and Nair explaining the incident to Hardik Pandya. Despite DC’s strong position at halfway, the change of ball and Mumbai’s spin attack turned the tide. Mitchell Santner’s dismissal of Nair proved crucial, triggering a collapse. Karn Sharma then took charge, picking up key wickets, and the innings ended with a dramatic hat-trick of run-outs as DC fell short.
Also WATCH: Tensions flare as Jasprit Bumrah loses cool at Karun Nair; Rohit Sharma’s reaction steals the show – IPL 2025, DC vs MI
Hardik Pandya praises Karun Nair and MI’s grit
Following the thrilling victory, MI captain Hardik Pandya addressed the media, acknowledging Nair’s brilliant innings despite the on-field incident.
“Winning is always special. We were not there in the game till the 13th over, but we fought back. We were running out of ideas when Karun Nair was batting, and he took us by surprise. Good for him, as he has been working hard in the last few years,” Pandya was quoted as saying by Crictoday.
Pandya also lauded the contributions of his bowlers and fielders. “Karn Sharma bowled well for us and took key wickets. Fielding always plays a role, and we ran out three DC batters. I told the boys during the strategic timeout to keep fighting and don’t give up. I wanted them to show their character,” he added, highlighting the team’s resilience.
Also READ: Karun Nair’s wife comes up with heartfelt posts following hubby’s sensational IPL comeback – DC vs MI
