KXIP vs MI: Rahul, Ashwin shine in Punjab’s clinical win

KXIP delivered a clinical performance to stun the formidable Mumbai Indians at Mohali. Murugan Ashwin’s accurate bowling triggered Mumbai’s collapse in the middle overs and then KL Rahul along with Gayle and Agarwal took Punjab over the line in the 19th over.

Rohit and de Kock give a flying start

Earlier in the afternoon, Quinton de Kock and Rohit Sharma gave a flying start to Mumbai and laid the foundation for a big score. Rohit scored 32 runs off just 18 balls but was out in the 6th over.

However, de Kock remained strong and kept the runs flowing. Suryakumar Yadav and Yuvraj Singh struggled to find runs and added pressure on the middle order.

Hardik Pandya gives the finishing touches

Kieron Pollard’s poor form continued too and Mumbai were in some trouble in the death overs. But Hardik Pandya once again showcased his hitting range and scored 31 quick runs off 19 balls to provide flourish in the death overs.

Mumbai managed to get 176 runs on the board after 20 overs.

M Ashwin gave away 25 runs and picked two wickets while Shami and Viljoen claimed two wickets each as well.

Gayle sets the tone for Punjab

KL Rahul who was in poor form, took his time to get set but Chris Gayle ensured the team wasn’t affected by this. Gayle scored 40 runs off 24 balls and after his demise, Mayank Agarwal continued the hitting and scored 43 off 21 balls.

Rahul changes gears when needed

After the fall of Gayle and Agarwal, Rahul upped the ante and ensured that Punjab reached home without any further hiccups. The right-hand batsman scored 71 runs off 57 balls and remained not out.

Krunal Pandya picked two wickets for Mumbai but he was highly expensive as he gave away 43 runs. The bowling duo of Malinga and Bumrah failed collectively while Hardik conceded 39 runs in his three overs.