Romario Shepherd’s explosive batting and Jasprit Bumrah‘s economical bowling were the highlights for Mumbai Indians as they secured their first win of IPL 2024 against Delhi Capitals.
The Mumbai Indians (MI) finally got their IPL 2024 campaign off to a winning start with a convincing 29-run victory over the Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. A powerful batting display by MI set the tone for the match, putting up a daunting total of 234 runs. While DC’s batters fought hard to chase down the target, Jasprit Bumrah’s sharp bowling ultimately sealed the win for Mumbai.
Romario Shepherd Memorable Cameo
The West Indian all-rounder played a match-winning cameo, smashing an unbeaten 39 runs off just 10 balls. His late-innings onslaught proved crucial in taking Mumbai Indians over the finish line. Speaking at the post-match press conference, Shepherd reflected on his approach.
“I know today a few balls could change the game, so I went in there to try and get as many (runs) as possible, especially in the last couple of balls. So I kept a clear mind and tried to hit every ball. It was good to see that it came off (well) for me,” he said in the post-match press conference on Sunday (April 7).”
Romario Shepherd taking cues from Kieron Pollard
Romario Shepherd, compared to Mumbai Indians batting coach Kieron Pollard for his finishing role, acknowledged his admiration.
“Yes, I look up to him (Kieron Pollard). He’s done fantastic things for Mumbai, which is similar to what I did today. So, when I got a call that I would play today, he (Pollard) told me to express myself before I went out to bat. So I went out there with a clear mindset, knowing that the coaching staff was backing me and the skipper was also telling me the same thing. So I went out and did what I was expected to do,” he added.
Jasprit Bumrah Creates History
Jasprit Bumrah continued his impressive record for Mumbai Indians, becoming the first bowler to take 150 wickets for a single IPL franchise. This feat adds to his two wickets in the match and his economical bowling spell of 4-0-22-2.
Bumrah claimed his historic 150th IPL wicket, dismissing Abhishek Porel (41) after earlier sending Prithvi Shaw (66) packing with his trademark yorker.
More Than Just Cricket: MI Family
When asked about what makes Mumbai Indians special, Shepherd highlighted the team’s family atmosphere.
“All big IPL teams are professional, and IPL is a big tournament. MI is more like a family. They try to push that family stuff and have been creating it publicly also because you see what they did today for the kids and to get them out in this sort of exposure. It is excellent because playing in front of kids is always fantastic. They give you the vibes, push, and support good cricket, so playing in front of them and doing what the owners do is great for the youngsters coming through. They can be at this game and watch how fantastic it was today because 200 runs on a wicket like that was great, and also, the way DC batted was good. They put us under some pressure, but you know, Bumrah did Bumrah things in getting us over the line,” he said.
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Victorious MI Celebration
The win no doubt sparked celebrations in Mumbai and Shepherd’s Caribbean homeland. “Everyone back home will be watching, especially when there’s a West Indian playing for Mumbai,” he said.
This victory marks a turning point for Mumbai Indians, who can now build on this momentum as they continue their IPL 2024 campaign. Romario Shepherd’s power-hitting and Jasprit Bumrah’s masterful bowling are valuable assets for the team, and fans will be eagerly awaiting their next match.
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