Rohit Sharma Fireworks as MI Crush KKR in IPL 2026 Opener at Wankhede

Rohit Sharma’s off-side masterclass, complemented by Ryan Rickelton’s on-side dominance, helped the Mumbai Indians end a 14-year wait and begin their IPL campaign with a commanding six-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday night. Chasing 221, the MI openers stitched together a blistering 148-run stand off just 72 balls, setting the tone for a trouble-free chase. Naman Dhir sealed the win by off-driving Anukul Roy for four off the first ball of the final over, handing MI their first season-opening victory since 2012.

Rohit began cautiously, opening his account with a thick inside-edged four off Blessing Muzarabani, one of three IPL debutants for KKR. But once set, the MI captain produced a vintage display of off-side strokeplay, lofting Muzarabani for an inside-out six in the fourth over and greeting Varun Chakaravarthy with the shot of the night. Rickelton dominated the leg side, capitalizing on wayward lines from the KKR bowlers. Rahane, who had led KKR’s charge with the bat after being put in, left the field after the third over due to cramps, depriving them of on-field leadership during a crucial phase. Along with Finn Allen, he powered the start before Shardul Thakur’s golden arm turned the tide. Making his MI debut, Thakur struck in each of his first three overs, first dismissing Allen with a knuckle ball before removing Cameron Green with a clever change of pace.

Rahane remained aggressive, welcoming Mayank Markande with two sixes and continuing his assault.

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