Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma (78 off 38) and opener Ryan Rickelton (81 off 43) powered MI to their highest-ever IPL run chase, defeating Kolkata Knight Riders by six wickets with five balls remaining in the IPL 2026 season opener at Wankhede Stadium.
Record-Breaking Opening Stand
The duo’s explosive 148-run partnership off 71 balls demolished KKR’s 220/4, ending MI’s 14-year opening match losing streak since 2012. Rickelton smashed 8 sixes, while Rohit’s 6×6 knock showcased vintage form after captaining MI to IPL glory last season.
KKR’s Competitive Total
Ajinkya Rahane’s classy 67 (40 balls) and Angkrish Raghuvanshi’s 51 (29) laid platforms, with Rinku Singh’s unbeaten 33 finishing strongly. Shardul Thakur’s 3/39 earned Player of the Match honors for MI’s disciplined bowling.
Historic Home Chase
MI’s 224/4 in 19.1 overs marked their biggest successful home pursuit. Hardik Pandya and Naman Dhir’s late composure sealed a morale-boosting start to title defense.
