MI vs GT Eliminator Smashes IPL Playoff Record with 436 Runs!
Cricket enthusiasts were treated to an unforgettable run-fest on Friday night as Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) combined for a staggering 436 runs in the IPL 2025 Eliminator at the PCA Stadium in Mullanpur. This electrifying encounter not only captivated fans but also etched its name in history as the highest-ever match aggregate in IPL playoff history, surpassing all previous benchmarks in the tournament’s knockout stages.
MI captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and elected to bat first, setting the stage for an explosive start. The five-time champions roared to a formidable 228/5, powered by a breathtaking 81 off 50 balls from opener Rohit Sharma. His elegant stroke play, including 8 fours and 4 sixes, dismantled GT’s bowling attack. Complementing Rohit’s masterclass was Jonny Bairstow, who smashed a blistering 47 off just 22 balls, ensuring MI raced to 79/0 in the powerplay—the highest of the season in a playoff match. Towards the end, Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya unleashed carnage, plundering 42 runs in the final two overs to set a daunting target.
In response, GT suffered an early setback with the dismissal of captain Shubman Gill for a mere 7. However, Sai Sudharsan rose to the occasion with a composed 81 off 49 balls, becoming the youngest batter to surpass 700 runs in a single IPL season—a remarkable feat at just 23 years old. Supported by Washington Sundar’s quickfire 48 off 23, GT fought valiantly to keep pace with the steep asking rate. Despite their efforts, MI’s lethal death bowling, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah (2/34) and Trent Boult (3/38), throttled GT’s momentum. The Titans finished at 208/6, falling short by 20 runs in a valiant chase.
This historic clash now tops the charts for the highest run aggregates in IPL playoff history, a testament to the evolving, batter-dominated landscape of T20 cricket. The previous record of 421 runs, set during a 2016 Qualifier between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Lions, was eclipsed in style. With bowlers under relentless pressure and batters showcasing fearless aggression, the Eliminator was a true celebration of modern T20 cricket.
As the dust settles on this record-breaking thriller, MI advance to Qualifier 2, where they will face Punjab Kings on June 1 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. For GT, the journey ends here, but not without leaving an indelible mark on IPL history. This match will be remembered as a showcase of raw talent, unyielding spirit, and the sheer unpredictability of the Indian Premier League.