Ashwani Kumar Shines on IPL Debut, Takes Four as MI Crush KKR for 116

In the thrilling game at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Indians (MI) conducted a bowling masterclass when they restricted Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to 116 runs from 16.2 overs. Not only did this effort make the lowest season score in the IPL 2025 season up to now, but it was also MI’s turnaround following a terrible beginning to the competition. The game and its highlights are examined in detail below.

The Bowling Brilliance of Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians‘ bowling attack was in sparkling form, dismantling the KKR batting line-up with precision and venom. The star turn was the debutant Ashwani Kumar, who would never be allowed to be forgotten for his maiden IPL game. The 23-year-old left-arm pacer lit the record books ablaze by becoming the first Indian pacer to get over four wickets in his debut match of IPL. His 4/24 played a crucial role in the collapse of KKR.

Ashwani Kumar’s influence was soon felt, as he crumped Ajinkya Rahane at third man off his first ball. His ability to swing the ball and hold a strong line and length put the KKR batsmen in a tizzy during his spell. Deepak Chahar too proved to be a game-changer, taking two crucial wickets and keeping the rival team on its toes.

Trent Boult put MI in the right frame of mind in the first over itself by getting rid of Sunil Narine with a peach of a delivery. It was then accompanied by the dismissal of Quinton de Kock by Chahar in the second over. Powerplay was done with KKR struggling at 45/5, with their opening batsmen back in the pavilion.

KKR’s Batting Struggles

KKR’s innings never picked up speed, with their batsmen unable to deal with MI’s consistent bowling attack. The champions-in-waiting were in distress from the very beginning, losing wickets at regular intervals. Angkrish Raghuvanshi was KKR’s highest scorer with 26 off 16. His short stay included a couple of boundaries, but that did not prove enough to stabilize the innings.

Manish Pandey and Rinku Singh attempted to put a lid on the innings by scoring 19 and 17 runs, respectively, but these efforts were abbreviated by MI’s aggressive bowling. The lack of stands and failure to rotate the strike only added to KKR’s misery. The team was then bowled out for 116 runs, with this being the first instance a team had ever been bowled out for fewer than 120 in IPL 2025.

KKR’s Lowest Scores

This match was part of Kolkata Knight Riders sequence of terrible scores in the IPL. They have been bowled out for sub-120 scores ten times, five of them by Mumbai Indians. Though they scored their worst-ever total of 67 runs in their initial season in the IPL, this recent collapse is sure to infuriate the team administration.

Mumbai Indians’ Chase

Chasing a modest 117, the Mumbai Indians walked in with élan and swagger. Ryan Rickelton provided the perfect start with a stunning half-century, and Suryakumar Yadav’s sublime cameo proved useful as the duo crossed the target with ease in 12.5 overs and an eight-wicket victory.

This win was a welcome respite for MI, who had seen an underwhelming beginning to their matches. The side moved up to sixth spot in the IPL rankings, while KKR plummeted to the cellar.

Takeaways

• Ashwani Kumar Dream Debut: The pacer’s record-breaking performance was the point of discussion for the match. His pressure handling and pressure delivery are a sign of good beginnings for MI’s season.
• KKR Batting Problems: The champions need to sort out their batting problems, which are failure to create partnerships and deal with quality bowling attacks.
• MI Bowling Depth: Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack showed depth and range by delivering performances by old horses and rookies.
• Turnaround Game: The win can turn the season around for MI, reshaping their campaign and team spirit.

Final Thoughts

The Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders IPL 2025 game was a demonstration of the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. The all-round effort by MI not only gave them a much-needed victory but also uncovered the weak points of KKR. Since the tournament is still underway, both teams will attempt to learn from this game—MI to keep their momentum going and KKR to re-group and tighten their weak points. For the time being, it’s all about Ashwani Kumar and his bright debut, something that will join the IPL ranks.