Rohit Sharma 2.0 Avatar Shines As Mumbai Indians Beat Kolkata Knight Riders In IPL

Add as a preferred source on Google

Mumbai Indians ended a 13-season jinx by winning their first opening TATA IPL match, beating Kolkata Knight Riders by six wickets. Rohit Sharma led a successful chase of KKR’s 220, drawing praise from Anil Kumble, Mahela Jayawardene, and Kevin Pietersen on JioStar Amul Cricket Live.

Speaking on the show, JioStar expert Anil Kumble highlighted Rohit’s return to peak form. He said, quoted JioStar, "Rohit Sharma seems to have arrived in his 2.0 avatar, and his innings showed he is ready to dominate again. The way he hit the ball all around the ground reminded me of his prime."

Kumble questions KKR's use of Narine and Varun

Kumble underlined the challenge of scoring against KKR’s leading bowlers. He said it is not easy hitting sixes off Varun Chakaravarthy, Sunil Narine, and Blessing Muzarabani. He credited Rohit’s fitness work and short break, calling the knock a clear sign that "Rohit means business".

Kumble felt KKR’s plan around their spinners went wrong. He said Sunil Narine not finishing four overs was surprising. He also felt Ajinkya Rahane missed using Narine in the Powerplay, when Rohit and Rickelton attacked, and early wickets were vital at Wankhede.

The former Indian cricketer further said that Narine and Varun were the bowlers who could have checked the Mumbai Indians. He noted they did not bowl enough together, and KKR’s inexperienced pace attack struggled. He stressed KKR must use their two world-class spinners better in such high-scoring games.

Jayawardene relieved as streak finally breaks

Mumbai Indians Head Coach Mahela Jayawardene said the opening loss streak since 2012 was a constant topic in the dressing room. He called the chase against KKR "a great execution" and admitted some nerves when KKR reached 220 on a good batting surface.

Jayawardene praised the top order for keeping the chase calm. He said Rohit and Rickelton’s fearless batting meant the Mumbai Indians did not suffer hiccups. He added he was very happy with the win and delighted to finally end the opening-match streak.

Pietersen urges MI to tighten bowling plans

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen said MI will be very happy with the win and will try to carry the momentum. But he pointed out their bowlers struggled to restrict KKR, who scored 220, and said that is an area they must address quickly.

Pietersen warned that other teams will study the Mumbai Indians closely. He said MI must have different plans and avoid being caught off guard. He praised their depth and strong batting, saying it feels like they have a World XI with many match-winners.