The clash between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL 2024 marked an enthralling start to the season, with MI opting to bowl first under the captaincy of Hardik Pandya.

Hardik Pandya’s Captaincy Debut for MI

In his first match as captain, Hardik Pandya made an intriguing decision to bowl first after winning the toss, setting the tone for MI’s strategy in the game. Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling prowess was on full display as he significantly impacted the match, picking crucial wickets and applying pressure on the GT batting lineup.

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Jasprit Bumrah’s Mastery of Yorkers

Bumrah’s execution of the yorker against Wriddhiman Saha showcased his unparalleled skill and precision, reminiscent of his legendary yorkers in Test and T20 cricket. As Bumrah displayed his bowling brilliance, the camera captured Lasith Malinga, the ‘original’ Yorker master, applauding his protege, highlighting the passing of the torch from one pace spearhead to another.

Hardik started himself the first over ended up going for 11 runs. Surprisingly, he ended up coming back for the third over instead of handing the ball to Jasprit Bumrah after Luke Wood bowled the second and conceded nine. Bumrah then came in and got the first wicket for MI in the form of Wriddhiman Saha with his trademark yorker.

Most three wickets haul in IPL for MI
20 – Jasprit Bumrah
19 – Malinga

GT were then buoyed by some strong knocks from Sai Sudharsan, who scored 45 off 39 along with Azmatullah Omarzai and David Miller. Bumrah returned in the 17th over to dismiss Miller and Sudharsan. And showed his dominance in IPL. In his 4 overs of spell, he conceded just 14 runs and bagged 3 crucial wickets for MI.

MI’s Decision to Bowl First

MI’s decision to bowl first paid dividends as their bowlers, led by Bumrah, successfully restricted GT’s batting lineup and put them on the back foot early in the match. MI handed a debut to 24-year-old Naman Dhir, who showcased his talent and potential as he made his first appearance for the team in place of the injured Suryakumar Yadav.