Ahmedabad: As the IPL 2025 season unfolds, the spotlight is firmly on Hardik Pandya as he returns to the Narendra Modi Stadium, the venue where he led Gujarat Titans to glory in 2022. Today’s match against Mumbai Indians, his current team, promises to be a thrilling encounter, especially given the backdrop of his last appearance here, where he was met with boos from the crowd.
Both teams are eager to kickstart their campaigns after disappointing starts. Mumbai Indians, missing Pandya in their opening game due to a suspension for a slow over-rate offence from the previous season, are looking to bounce back. Pandya’s return is expected to bolster their lineup significantly, particularly after their batting struggled against the pace of Khaleel Ahmed and the spin of Noor Ahmad at Chepauk.
Gujarat Titans, on the other hand, are still reeling from their narrow defeat against Punjab Kings. Despite having the chase under control, they faltered under the pressure of Vijaykumar Vyshak’s bowling. Their bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kagiso Rabada, and Rashid Khan, will need to step up their game. Additionally, their fielding, marred by dropped catches and misfields, must improve to avoid giving their opponents unnecessary advantages.
The pitch at Ahmedabad is known for its true bounce and placid nature, which should suit Mumbai’s batting lineup, including Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Pandya, Will Jacks, and Ryan Rickleton. On the bowling front, Mumbai’s pacers Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar will aim to challenge Gujarat’s top order, including Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler, while left-arm wrist spinner Vignesh Puthur looks to continue his impressive form.
As Pandya steps onto the field today, all eyes will be on how the Ahmedabad crowd reacts. Will they welcome him back with cheers, reminiscing his triumphant days with the Titans, or will the memory of his last visit overshadow the occasion with jeers? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this match is more than just a game; it’s a narrative of redemption and resilience.