KKR Fall Short in Just 4 Runs

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MI Captain Hardik Rues Close Defeat

Mumbai Indians' Skipper Hardik Pandya Disappointed After Narrow Loss to RCB at Wankhede

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya expressed frustration after his team fell short in a high-scoring thriller against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 clash at Wankhede Stadium. Chasing a daunting 222, MI threatened with a fiery partnership between Pandya and Tilak Varma but ultimately lost by a narrow(12 run) margin.

A Run-Fest That Slipped Away

Pandya admitted the pitch heavily favored batters, making it difficult for bowlers. “It was a run-fest. The wicket was really good. We fell short by just two hits,” he said in the post-match presentation. Despite a valiant effort, MI couldn't cross the line against an RCB side that continues to break long-standing records-winning at Wankhede for the first time in a decade after recently ending their 17-year Chepauk jinx against CSK.

Rohit Sharma’s Struggles Continue

Former captain Rohit Sharma, demoted to Impact Player role, managed only 17 runs off nine balls. Pandya defended the decision, explaining, “Ro wasn’t available last game, so we had to adjust. He’s versatile-can bat anywhere. Today, Tilak was fantastic.” Sharma’s poor form (13, 8, 0 in first three games) remains a concern for MI.

Bumrah’s Return Fails to Deliver

Jasprit Bumrah, playing his first match of IPL 2025, went wicketless (0/29 in 4 overs). Pandya backed his star pacer, saying, “Having him makes any team special. We’re happy he’s back.” However, MI’s bowling lacked penetration, with RCB’s batters dominating.

What’s Next for MI?

Pandya urged his team to stay positive: “Never back down. We’ll keep fighting.”With three losses in five games, MI must regroup quickly to keep playoff hopes alive.

Final Score: RCB 221/5 (20) | MI 209/9(20)

Player of the Match:- Rajat Patidar (RCB)-64 off 32

Will MI bounce back? Or will their struggles continue? Stay tuned for more IPL2025 updates!