SMAT 2025: Former CSK pacer KM Asif floors Mumbai as Kerala secure massive Victory

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Former Chennai Super Kings player KM Asif pulled off a bowling masterclass as Kerala registered a crucial win over Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on Thursday (December 4).

Asif rattled the Mumbai batting while chasing 179, as the coveted side crumbled from a great position to lose the match by 15 runs.

Kerala vs Mumbai - How it Happened

Kerala posted a strong total of 178 for 5 wickets in their full 20 overs, showcasing impressive batting depth and aggression. Captain and wicketkeeper Samson led the charge with a brisk 46 runs off just 28 balls, including eight boundaries and a six, scoring at a striking rate of 164.29. Vishnu Vinod supported well, remaining unbeaten on 43 off 40 balls, but Sharafuddeen shined towards the end, smashing a quickfire 35 not out from 15 deliveries, marked by five boundaries and two sixes at an impressive strike rate of 233.33.

In the run chase, Mumbai had a rocky start with Ayush Mhatre falling early, but Ajinkya Rahane and Sarfaraz Khan steadied the ship. The duo added 80 runs for 2nd wicket and then Suryakumar Yadav further solidified their run chase. Mumbai were 148 for 4 and required 31 runs in the last three overs, but Asif changed the match.

The 32-year-old pacer knocked over Sairaj Patil and then picked up the wicket of Suryakumar Yadav in the 18th over. He came back with menace in the final over and dismissed the last two batters as Mumbai were bowled out for 163, losing their last six wickets for just 15 runs.

This defeat is the first for Mumbai in the SMAT 2025, as Kerala have managed to eke out a crucial victory to keep their campaign alive. Sanju Samson is expected to lead them in the next match as well, before leaving for India duty in the T20I series against South Africa.