The five-time IPL champions, Mumbai Indians, locked horns with Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium on May 21 in a high-stakes clash that could determine the final playoff entrant of IPL 2025. Delhi were led by stand-in captain Faf du Plessis, who stepped in for Axar Patel, sidelined due to illness. Upon winning the toss, Du Plessis opted to bowl first, hoping to capitalise on the conditions under lights.

Mumbai’s innings got off to a fiery start thanks to opener Ryan Rickelton. Facing Dhushmantha Chameera in the second over of the powerplay, the left-hander showed no signs of pressure.
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On the third delivery of the over, Chameera pitched it full, and Rickelton responded by launching it straight back over the bowler’s head for the first six of the match. Unfazed, the Sri Lankan pacer adjusted his length slightly on the next ball, but Rickelton stayed aggressive, dispatching the delivery over long-off for his second consecutive maximum. The over cost Delhi 15 valuable runs, giving Mumbai early momentum.
Ryan Rickelton kicks things off in style with power and precision 🔥
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With playoff scenarios hanging by a thread, this match carried massive implications for both sides. Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings have already sealed their spots in the top four, leaving just one position up for grabs.
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Mumbai, placed fourth with 14 points, would confirm their playoff berth with a win. Delhi, just a step behind with 13 points, must win not just this game but also their final group fixture against Punjab Kings to stay alive. A loss to Mumbai would spell the end of their playoff hopes. The pressure is on, and every run, every over, could define the fate of both franchises in this tightly contested IPL season.