Hardik Pandya was a pleased captain after Mumbai Indians (MI) registered their first victory of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Wankhade cricket stadium on Monday (March 31).

While speaking in the post-match presentation, Hardik expressed his satisfaction with the team's win, particularly the collective effort that led to it.

Left-arm pacer Ashwani Kumar starred with the ball in MI’s win. He returned with the figures of 4/24 (3 overs) on debut, restricting KKR to just 116 runs in 16.2 overs.

Hardik credited the MI scouts for identifying Ashwani’s potential while also praising latter’s bowling style and the crucial wicket he took of Russell.

"Very satisfying to win, especially at home. The way we did it, as a group, everyone chipped in - can't be happier. It's always a challenge picking one guy here and there. With our team, it's pretty sorted with the players who we are backing,” Mumbai skipper said.

“This wicket just offered a bit more, and we thought Ashwani could come in and bowl the way he bowled. First of all, it's all because of the scouts. All MI scouts have gone to all the places and picked these young kids. We played a practice game, and it looked like he had that zip and late swing, had a different action, and plus he is a leftie. The way he took that wicket of Russell was a very crucial wicket. And especially, how he started with that catch of Quinton,” he added.

“It was great to see a fast bowler jumping that high. As I mentioned earlier, it's a great sign for everyone to chip in and kick off the tournament for us," he further remarked.

Chasing 117 to win, Mumbai Indians overhauled the target in 12.5 overs, with Ryan Rickelton scoring a half-century (62* off 41) and Suryakumar Yadav (27* off 9) delivering a rapid cameo.

The five-time champions lost only two wickets during the chase as KKR all-rounder Andre Russell took the scalps of Rohit Sharma and Will Jacks.

(With ANI Inputs)