In a high-octane IPL 2026 clash at Wankhede, Mumbai Indians chased down Lucknow Super Giants’ 228 with six wickets in hand. Ryan Rickelton’s fireworks – 83 runs from 32 balls featuring 8 sixes and 6 fours – stole the show, clinching him Player of the Match.
The South African opener couldn’t hold back his admiration for partner Rohit Sharma. ‘Rohit is among the all-time greats for India and MI,’ Rickelton gushed. ‘Opening with him and sharing the crease is a real treat. Wankhede’s pitches have been fantastic, allowing us to sync perfectly, attack bowlers timely, and back each other up.’
Reflecting on the steep chase, he said, ‘IPL chases are getting wilder by the day. As Suryakumar puts it, a solid start builds the base. Our lineup follows that pattern. This season’s been patchy for us, but depth from 3 to 9 gives us firepower.’ Rickelton knows his game plan: ‘I understand my role clearly on the field.’
LSG’s Nicholas Pooran lit up with 63 off 21, but MI’s openers responded. Rohit hammered 84 off 44 (7 sixes, 6 fours), their 143-run partnership in just 10.5 overs paving the way. Naman Dhir and Will Jacks sealed it unbeaten.
