Kerala produced one of their strongest performances of the season as they handed Mumbai their first defeat in the ongoing domestic T20 tournament. Led by Sanju Samson, Sharafuddeen, and KM Asif, Kerala delivered a powerful all-round show to clinch a 15-run victory in Lucknow.
In another important Group match, Baroda crushed Gujarat, while Delhi defeated Karnataka in a high-scoring thriller. These results have reshaped the points table and increased competition as the tournament moves forward.
This article breaks down the matches, key moments, top performers, and overall impact on the tournament.
Kerala vs Mumbai – Detailed Match Analysis
1. Samson Sets the Tone Upfront
Sanju Samson, returning as an opener this season, gave Kerala the perfect start. His 46 off 28 balls featured clean stroke play, aggressive intent, and smart shot selection. Samson’s ability to dominate the powerplay overs allowed Kerala to build early momentum.
Even though Mumbai tried to slow things down with tight middle-overs bowling, Samson’s innings laid the ideal base for a big score.
2. Vishnu Vinod Holds One End
Vishnu Vinod played an unusual knock for his style, scoring 43 not out off 40 balls. While his strike rate was slower, he ensured Kerala did not lose wickets in clusters. His stability helped Sharafuddeen attack freely later.
3. Sharafuddeen’s Late Flourish
One of the biggest highlights was Sharafuddeen’s explosive 35 off just 15 balls. Entering during the final overs, he switched gears instantly, smashing boundaries at will and pushing Kerala to a competitive total of 178/5.
His cameo made the difference between a par total and a winning total.
Mumbai’s Chase – A Story of Missed Opportunities
1. Early Blow as Sharafuddeen Strikes Again
Sharafuddeen made an impact with the ball too, removing Ayush Mhatre in the first over. This early dismissal increased pressure on Mumbai.
2. Rahane and Sarfaraz Keep Mumbai Alive
Ajinkya Rahane: 32 off 18
Sarfaraz Khan: 52 off 40
Both played confidently, rotating strike and punishing loose balls. Their partnership kept Mumbai in control during the first half of the chase.
When Sarfaraz was dismissed, Mumbai needed 80 runs from 8 overs, which was still very achievable.
3. Suryakumar Yadav Threatens to Take the Game Away
Suryakumar Yadav, one of the best T20 batters in India, played a powerful knock of 32 off 25 balls. His innovative stroke play reduced the equation to:
31 needed from 3 overs
At this point, Mumbai seemed well placed to hand Kerala another defeat.
4. KM Asif’s Game-Changing Over
The match completely changed when KM Asif bowled the 18th over, taking three crucial wickets, including:
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Two lower-order batters
Mumbai collapsed under pressure and suddenly needed 18 runs from the final over with only two wickets left.
Asif came back again and cleaned up the last two batsmen in just four balls, completing a brilliant five-wicket haul.
He finished with:
KM Asif – 5 wickets, Match-winner
Delhi vs Karnataka – Another High-Scoring Thriller
While Kerala and Mumbai battled in Lucknow, Delhi posted a huge 232/3 against Karnataka in Ahmedabad.
Delhi’s Star Performers
- Ayush Badoni: 53 off 35 balls + 4/12
- Priyansh Arya: Fifty
- Tejasvi Dahiya: Fifty
Badoni was the standout player, shining with both bat and ball.
Karnataka’s Response
- Devdutt Padikkal: 62 off 38 balls
- R Smaran: 72 off 38 balls
Despite these strong innings, Karnataka lacked support from the middle and lower order and were bowled out for 187 in 19.3 overs, losing by 45 runs.
Impact of These Matches
✔ Kerala secured a much-needed boost in confidence
✔ Mumbai faced their first loss of the season
✔ Delhi strengthened their position in Group D
✔ Karnataka slipped due to lack of depth
✔ Baroda’s win over Gujarat shook the standings
Key Match Highlights
| Match | Top Performer(s) | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kerala vs Mumbai | Sanju Samson, Sharafuddeen, KM Asif | Kerala defeated Mumbai by 15 runs; Asif took a five-wicket haul; Samson scored 46 |
| Delhi vs Karnataka | Ayush Badoni | Delhi posted 232/3; Badoni hit 53 and took 4/12; Karnataka fell short by 45 runs |
| Baroda vs Gujarat | Baroda Team | Baroda crushed Gujarat with complete dominance |
Conclusion
Kerala’s victory over Mumbai was a result of excellent team coordination and standout performances from Samson, Sharafuddeen, and Asif. Mumbai, despite having strong moments, lost control during the final overs.
Meanwhile, Delhi’s big win over Karnataka and Baroda’s commanding performance over Gujarat are shaping the tournament into an intense battle.
More:- Samson Stars in Kerala’s