On May 17, 2017, a thrilling eliminator match unfolded at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where the Rising Pune Supergiants faced off against the Mumbai Indians. This breathtaking encounter was marked by exceptional performances and intense competition that kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout the evening.
Batting first, the Rising Pune Supergiants managed to post a total of 162 runs, despite losing early wickets. Ajinkya Rahane was the standout performer for the Supergiants, scoring a commendable 56 runs off 60 balls, including five boundaries and one six, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings. Manoj Tiwary also contributed significantly with a solid 58 runs from 90 deliveries, while MS Dhoni played a brisk knock of 40 runs off just 26 balls, punctuated with five explosive sixes. The Supergiants’ total was bolstered by 7 extras.
In response, the Mumbai Indians faced a challenging target, but they struggled against a disciplined bowling attack. Mumbai collapsed for just 142 runs in their 20 overs, with Parthiv Patel being the top scorer for his side with 52 runs off 78 balls. Lendl Simmons and Hardik Pandya added 5 and 14 runs, respectively, but the innings saw a series of dismal performances as key players like Rohit Sharma and Kieron Pollard were dismissed cheaply, putting Mumbai on the back foot.
Rising Pune’s bowling unit, led by Washington Sundar, was exceptional, as he picked up three crucial wickets for just 16 runs in his four overs, which played a pivotal role in derailing Mumbai’s innings. Other bowlers, including Shardul Thakur and Lockie Ferguson, contributed effectively, sealing Mumbai's fate.
Ultimately, Rising Pune Supergiants emerged victorious by 20 runs, putting pressure on their opponents and securing passage into the later stages of the tournament. The memorable match stood out not only for its nail-biting finish but also for the thrilling performances that were on display, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the subsequent matches in the IPL season.