New Delhi: It has been a case of ‘so near, yet so far’ for Mumbai Indians (MI) who suffered their fourth loss in five IPL 2025 matches following a defeat against RCB at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. RCB recorded their first win at the Wankhede in 10 years.
MI captain Hardik Pandya was left emotional following the close loss by 12 runs, which resulted in his team dropping down to the eighth spot on the points table. Hardik’s brother and RCB all-rounder Krunal Pandya was seen consoling him following the defeat with the duo seen sharing a long hug before the post-match presentation. The brothers were later seen interacting on the ground.
“We knew only one (Pandya) would win. But the love and affection we have for each other is very natural. He batted well. We both wanted to win. I feel for him,” said Krunal during the post-match interaction.
Interestingly, Krunal delivered the final nail in his former team’s coffin, defending 19 runs off the final over. The all-rounder accounted for the dismissals of Mitchell Santner and Deepak Chahar off the first two deliveries, maintaining a tight line and length off the remaining deliveries as well. Hardik was seen smiling initially during the final over. However, he soon seemed stunned as the momentum of the match turned steadily in RCB’s favour.
“We fell short by two hits, don’t know what to say. It came down to execution,” stated Hardik.
Both the Pandya brothers emerged as star performers, making their presence felt. Hardik chipped in with a 15-ball 42, accounting for two dismissals as well. Krunal broke the backbone of the MI chase, picking four wickets. MI will look to make amends after suffering their second straight loss by the same margin of runs.
