In a rain-affected yet thrilling contest at the Wankhede Stadium, the Gujarat Titans (GT) pulled off a spectacular run chase to bring the high-flying Mumbai Indians (MI) juggernaut to a grinding halt. Chasing a revised target of 147 in 17 overs, GT displayed nerves of steel and brilliance under pressure to clinch the game in the final over, catapulting themselves to the top of the points table in the ongoing IPL 2025 season.
Rain Interruptions and a Revised Chase
The match started under overcast skies, and after multiple rain delays, the contest was reduced to 17 overs per side. Mumbai Indians, who came into the match on a four-match winning streak, were put in to bat first after losing the toss. Despite the interruptions, MI managed to post a competitive 146/8 in their allotted overs, thanks to contributions across the middle and lower order.
Mumbai’s Fighting Total Led by Rutherford
While MI lost early wickets, it was Sherfane Rutherford who injected life into their innings. The left-hander smashed a quickfire 28 off just 15 deliveries, including two sixes and a four, at a crucial juncture. With support from Tim David and some late boundaries from the tail, Mumbai reached a total that seemed defendable given the conditions and their potent bowling attack.
GT’s Chase Begins Steadily
Gujarat Titans began their chase with calculated aggression. Despite losing early wickets, they ensured the run rate stayed within reach. The top order, led by Wriddhiman Saha and Sai Sudharsan, laid a steady platform before the middle order took charge. However, the chase wasn’t without hiccups. Mumbai’s pace duo — Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult — struck twice each, applying pressure with tight lines and early breakthroughs.
Ashwani Shines with the Ball
MI’s young spinner Ashwani continued his impressive run this season, picking up two key wickets in the middle overs. His variations and fearless approach put GT on the back foot briefly, creating a window of opportunity for the home side. However, Gujarat’s depth in batting ensured the contest remained balanced heading into the final overs.
Rutherford’s Knock Proves Pivotal — But for GT
Though Rutherford’s heroics were originally for MI with the bat, his innings set the tone for the match. Yet it was the Gujarat duo of Rahul Tewatia and Gerald Coetzee who ultimately turned the tide in the visitors’ favour.
Tewatia and Coetzee Steal the Show
Rahul Tewatia, known for his ability to finish games under pressure, once again rose to the occasion. With 30 runs needed off the last two overs, he partnered with South African all-rounder Gerald Coetzee in a display of powerful yet calculated hitting. Coetzee smashed a six and a four in the 19th over, while Tewatia launched the final assault, scoring 15 off the last over to take GT home with just a ball to spare.
Their unbeaten partnership was a masterclass in death-over batting, demonstrating GT’s resilience and strategic planning. Tewatia remained not out on 32 off 17 balls, while Coetzee chipped in with a crucial 18 off 8 balls.
Bowlers’ Efforts in Vain for Mumbai
Despite the commendable efforts by Bumrah (2/18), Boult (2/26), and Ashwani (2/23), MI’s bowlers couldn’t defend the total under pressure. GT’s calculated approach, punctuated with timely boundaries, negated the impact of Mumbai’s otherwise lethal bowling lineup.
Turning Point: The 19th Over
The penultimate over bowled by Akash Madhwal shifted the momentum completely in GT’s favour. Conceding 15 runs, including a six from Coetzee and a boundary from Tewatia, the over proved to be the turning point of the match. By the time the final over began, Gujarat needed just 10 runs, which Tewatia chased down with a ball to spare, silencing the home crowd.
GT’s Statement Win and Climb to the Top
With this victory, the Gujarat Titans not only ended Mumbai Indians’ winning streak but also sent a strong message to the rest of the competition. Their all-round performance, composed chase, and ability to stay calm under pressure have made them serious contenders for the title.
This win pushes GT to the top of the table with a healthy net run rate, while MI, despite the loss, remain in the top four thanks to their early-season dominance.