PBKS vs MI Match Highlights: IPL 2024

In a thrilling encounter at Mullanpur, the Mumbai Indians edged out Punjab Kings by a narrow margin of nine runs. Despite the electrifying innings from Ashutosh Sharma, who scored a quickfire 61 from 28 balls, PBKS fell short, concluding their chase at 183 in 19.1 overs.

Suryakumar Yadav's composed 78 off 53 deliveries was crucial in setting up MI's total of 192/7. Notably, Jasprit Bumrah and Gerald Coetzee were instrumental for MI, claiming three wickets each.

Initial Onslaught and a Top Order Collapse

The match began with a burst of energy as PBKS started their chase aggressively. Sam Curran opened the scoring with a boundary off the very first ball, signalling PBKS's intent to chase down the target aggressively. However, this high did not last long as Gerald Coetzee and Jasprit Bumrah quickly sent shockwaves through the PBKS batting lineup.

Bumrah dismissed Sam Curran and Rilee Rossouw in quick succession, destabilizing the top order. Coetzee complemented this effort by removing Liam Livingstone and later Ashutosh Sharma, one of the most impactful wickets of the match, as PBKS found themselves teetering at 14/4 by the end of the 2.1 overs. This early collapse put immense pressure on the middle order very early in the chase.

Middle-Order Resistance

Despite the top-order faltering, Ashutosh Sharma and Shashank Singh showed resilience and determination. Ashutosh, particularly, played a mesmerizing knock, achieving his half-century in just 23 balls. He and Shashank formed a crucial partnership, trying to stabilize the innings and bringing PBKS back into contention.

Shashank supported well with a gutsy 41 off 25 balls, but just when the partnership was looking threatening, Coetzee broke through by dismissing Ashutosh for 61 runs from 28 deliveries. This wicket was a significant blow to PBKS's chances and showcased Coetzee's ability to strike at crucial moments.

Bumrah's Tight Overs

Jasprit Bumrah’s contribution to the match was pivotal, delivering overs that were not only economical but also laden with wickets. He maintained a stringent line and length that choked the PBKS batsmen, allowing them minimal scoring opportunities. His bowling figures of 3/21 from his four overs were crucial in keeping the run chase under control.