Unprecedented Achievement in IPL
In a thrilling display of skill and strategy, Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya secures his first-ever five-wicket haul in T20 cricket. This historic performance took place during a nail-biting match against the Lucknow Super Giants. Despite formidable half-centuries from Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram pushing LSG to a total of 203 for 8, Pandya’s exceptional figures of 5/36 were instrumental in halting their advance.
Comparison of IPL Bowling Records by Captains
- Hardik Pandya (MI) – 5/36 in four overs against LSG in Lucknow (April 4, 2025)
- Anil Kumble (RCB) – 4/16 in four overs against Deccan Chargers in Johannesburg (May 24, 2009)
- Anil Kumble (RCB) – 4/16 in 3.3 overs against Deccan Chargers in Navi Mumbai (April 24, 2010)
- Jean-Paul Duminy (DC) – 4/17 in three overs against SRH in Visakhapatnam (April 18, 2015)
Key Moments from the Match
The match began with LSG’s openers, Marsh and Markram, aggressively scoring, with LSG at 69 for no loss at the end of the powerplay. However, the introduction of left-arm wrist spinner Vignesh Puthur in the seventh over turned the tide. Puthur’s immediate breakthrough, catching and bowling Marsh, disrupted the strong opening partnership.
Pandya’s strategic entry into the bowling lineup shortly thereafter led to the dismissals of Pooran and the LSG captain Rishabh Pant, reflecting his astute leadership and game management under pressure.
Highlight Players and Performances
Despite being at the receiving end of the bowling attack, Marsh delivered a swift and fiery 60 off 31 balls, including nine fours and two sixes, demonstrating his formidable form this season. Markram also contributed significantly with a resilient 53 off 38 balls before falling to Pandya.
MI missed their captain Rohit Sharma due to an injury sustained during training, making Pandya’s achievement even more significant as he stepped up in the absence of their regular skipper.
Conclusion
Hardik Pandya’s landmark performance not only marked a record in the IPL but also demonstrated his skill as both a bowler and a leader, highlighting a match filled with strategic brilliance and individual prowess.
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Last Updated: April 4, 2025
