Mumbai Indians' emphatic 99-run win over Gujarat Titans was defined Tilak Vermatalent, but captain hardik pandya It made it clear that an important tactical call with the ball also played a decisive role. The biggest topic of discussion was the decision to hand over the new ball. Jasprit BumrahA move that paid off immediately as he dismissed Sai Sudarshan on the very first ball. It was also an important moment for boomrah Personally, as it was his first wicket of the season, coming in his sixth match. Addressing the long-standing question as to why Bumrah doesn't usually bowl the first over, Hardik gave a clear explanation. “I have seen a lot of people going, why did Jassi never bowl? But if you see, it has become 138 [151] Appearances and I think 8 or 9 times Jasprit has bowled the first over. So I don't think it is Hardik Pandya's problem. He emphasized that Bumrah's role is defined by impact rather than tradition. “It's just that Jasprit Bumrah is so special that you use him wherever required for the team, not when you start. But yes, today we realized that we really want to make an impact with the new ball, and no one is better than him.” That early success laid the foundation for MI's dominance, as GT never recovered from the blow and were eventually bowled out for 100. Hardik also highlighted how important the win was for the group, especially considering their struggles this season and the challenge of playing in Ahmedabad. “It's always challenging to go away and win. Ahmedabad has been something that has been very difficult for us as Mumbai Indians. And yes, we have just played good cricket. It feels very special because it was very much needed.” The MI captain was equally vocal about the decisive turn with the bat, revealing how simple and straightforward his message to Tilak Verma was during the strategic break. “I realized that with the kind of talent Tilak has, he really doesn't have to worry too much. The only message I kept telling him was that you just have to see the ball and hit the ball no matter what. I really believe that the kind of ball coming off his bat is really something special. Hardik acknowledged the intensity of the moment, saying, “A few times I screamed so loudly that I felt dizzy. But it was much needed for the group, for Tilak and for Mumbai Indians.” He especially praised the young players who stepped up and performed in a must-win game. “Really amazing by the youngsters. Mumbai Indians needed it as a group. Debutant Krish, coming in and bowling in the right areas, showing the right intent. Ashwini coming in and bowling, really amazing, taking 4-fers. He changed the momentum for us. Special mention to Naman too.” For Hardik it was more than a victory. It felt like a change of pace.
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