Mumbai Indians’ Jasprit Bumrah celebrates with captain Hardik Pandya (PTI Photo) Mumbai Indians’ emphatic 99-run win over Gujarat Titans was defined by Tilak Varma’s brilliance, but skipper Hardik Pandya made it clear that a key tactical challenge with the ball also played a decisive role.One of the biggest talking points was the decision to hand the new ball to Jasprit Bumrah, a move that paid off immediately as he struck with the very first over to remove Sai Sudharsan. It was also a significant moment for Bumrah personally as it was his first wicket of the season, coming in his sixth match.
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Mahela Jayawardene on bad bowling, combinations and team issues Answering the long-standing question as to why Bumrah doesn’t usually bowl first, Hardik offered a clear explanation.“I saw a lot of people going why Jassie never bowled. But if you see it was 138 (151) appearances and I think 8 or 9 times Jasprit bowled the first match. So I don’t think it’s Hardik Pandya’s problem.”He emphasized that Bumrah’s role is defined by impact rather than convention.“Just Jasprit Bumrah is so special that you use him wherever you need him for the team, not when you start. But yes, we realized today that we really want to make an impact with the new ball and nobody is better than him.”This early breakthrough set the tone for MI’s dominance as GT never recovered from the blow and were eventually bowled out for 100.Hardik also emphasized how crucial the win was for the group, especially considering their struggles this season and the challenge of playing in Ahmedabad.“It’s always challenging to come away and win. Ahmedabad is something that is very difficult for us as Mumbai Indians. And yes, we just played some good cricket. It’s very special because it was much needed.”The MI captain was equally vocal about the turning point with the bat and revealed how his message to Tilak Varma during the strategic break was simple and direct.“I realized the kind of talent Tilak has, he really doesn’t have to worry about a lot. The one message I kept telling him was you’re just going to look at the ball and hit the ball no matter what. I really believe the kind of ball he hits off his bat is something really special.”Acknowledging the intensity of the moment, Hardik said, “I went so loud a few times that I felt dizzy. But for the group, for Tilak and for Mumbai Indians, it was very necessary.”He reserved special praise for the younger players who stepped up in a must-win game.“Really amazing youngsters. Mumbai Indians needed it as a group. Debutant Krish, coming in and bowling in the right areas, showing the right intent. Ashwani came in and bowled, really amazing, took 4 overs. Changed the tempo for us. Special mention to Naman too.”For Hardik, it was more than just a win. It felt like a momentum shift.
