Mumbai Indians defeat KKR thanks to Ashwani’s burst and Rickelton’s blitz

• Mumbai Indians, led by Ashwani Kumar and Ryan Rickelton, opened their Indian Premier League 2025 account with a facile eight-wicket win against Kolkata Knight Riders.

• Ashwani Kumar, a left-arm seamer, emerged as the surprise package from a four-pronged pace pack to derail the Knight Riders.

• Despite losing Rohit Sharma, Rickelton’s powerhitting helped the home team cross the line with 43 balls to spare.

• Ashwani’s bowling was the flavour of the day, with Rahane and Tilak Varma scoring the openers.

• The Knight Riders’ hopes were reliant on Rinku Singh and Manish Pandey, but Ashwani’s breakthrough was crucial.

• Rickelton’s heroics and Suryakumar Yadav’s cameo were highlights of the match.