Rohit Sharma capitalised on multiple reprieves to craft a commanding 81 off 50 deliveries, while Jonny Bairstow made a blistering impact on his Mumbai Indians debut, helping the five-time champions post an imposing 228/5 against a lackluster Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2025 Eliminator on Friday.

On a relatively drier surface compared to the previous day`s match, Mumbai opted to bat first, and their decision paid immediate dividends. Gujarat Titans, however, were architects of their own downfall, dropping three crucial catches, two of Rohit and one of Suryakumar Yadav, while also delivering a lacklustre bowling performance in this high-stakes clash.

Rohit, riding his luck, was let off twice during the powerplay. The first chance was spilled by Gerald Coetzee at deep square leg, followed by debutant Kusal Mendis fumbling a routine catch behind the stumps off Siraj. These missed opportunities proved costly, as the veteran opener made the Titans pay dearly with a flurry of audacious strokes.