IPL 2025: Bangalore set Mumbai a target of 222 runs to win

In a high-octane IPL 2025 clash at the Wankhede Stadium on April 7, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) posted an imposing total of 221/5 against Mumbai Indians (MI). Virat Kohli led the charge with a commanding 67 off 42 balls, combining elegance and aggression in his knock. His innings laid the foundation for RCB’s big score, supported by valuable contributions from Devdutt Padikkal and skipper Rajat Patidar.

Mumbai Indians won the toss and chose to field first, with captain Hardik Pandya confirming the return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah to the playing XI after a lengthy injury layoff. However, MI bowlers struggled to contain the RCB batsmen, who built strong partnerships throughout the innings.

After an early setback when Phil Salt was dismissed on the second ball, Kohli and Padikkal launched a counterattack that shifted the momentum in RCB’s favour. Kohli praised Padikkal’s innings, noting how it helped turn the tide. “Dev played brilliantly and really changed the momentum. We needed a good partnership, and we got one,” Kohli remarked. He also credited skipper Patidar for a composed half-century and hailed Jitesh Sharma’s aggressive cameo.

Kohli emphasized the need to adapt in modern T20 cricket. “You have to keep evolving. I tried new shots, targeted different areas, and focused on timing early in the innings,” he said. Reflecting on Padikkal’s recent form, he expressed confidence that a big innings from the young left-hander is on the horizon.

With 222 runs needed for victory, Mumbai Indians face a daunting chase. The match promises an exciting second half, with MI relying on their star-studded lineup to pull off a challenging win.