Hardik Pandya showcased his lighter side after Mumbai Indians’ emphatic win in the IPL 2025 Eliminator, hilariously serenading debutant Jonny Bairstow in a post-match interview. As Bairstow marked his return to the IPL with a blistering knock against Gujarat Titans, Pandya expressed his admiration in his own quirky style, singing a popular Hindi song from the film Baby John.
“What a debut! Jonny! Jonny!! Jonny Baby! Teri meri hai kahaani… New chapter,” Hardik Pandya crooned with a grin, leaving the Englishman momentarily baffled. Bairstow, though confused, played along with a smile. “Not sure about it, but we’ll go with it,” he chuckled, to which Pandya explained, “It’s a Hindi song.”
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The exchange was as entertaining as Bairstow’s innings itself. Having been roped in as a late replacement for Ryan Rickelton, Bairstow made his presence felt immediately. The 35-year-old slammed a rapid 47 off just 26 deliveries, hammering four boundaries and three sixes. His explosive start alongside Rohit Sharma laid the foundation for MI’s mammoth total of 228/6.
Jonny be like, “samajh nahi aaya lekin sunke achha laga!” 🤣💙#MumbaiIndians #PlayLikeMumbai #TATAIPL #GTvMI pic.twitter.com/xp6V4b1dpN
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) May 31, 2025
First game, first impact – that’s Jonny Bairstow for you
He bags the Dressing Room Batting award for his fearless batting #MumbaiIndians #PlayLikeMumbai #TATAIPL #GTvMI pic.twitter.com/V55RHxYn9i
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) May 31, 2025
The duo stitched together an 84-run opening partnership that wrested control early and set the tone for the rest of the innings. While Rohit Sharma’s commanding 81 grabbed the headlines, Bairstow’s contribution was equally vital, providing a much-needed push in the powerplay. His ability to handle pressure in such a crucial knockout game spoke volumes about his experience and temperament.
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Speaking after the match, Jonny Bairstow reflected on the whirlwind nature of his return. “It’s been amazing. Getting that call to join Mumbai Indians was special, and then to come here and perform in an Eliminator… It’s been quite the journey,” he said. “There are always nerves, no matter who you are. But those nerves, when channelled properly, bring out your best.”
With one foot in the next phase, Mumbai Indians will hope Bairstow continues his dream run—and perhaps pick up a few more Hindi lyrics along the way.
