IPL 2025: GT vs MI - Hardik Pandya returns to familiar Ahmedabad, ready to prove himself as captain

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season heats up tonight as the Mumbai Indians (MI) square off against the Gujarat Titans (GT) at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. Eyes will be particularly fixed on Hardik Pandya, the MI captain, who will be back after serving his 1-match ban, returning to the ground where he led GT to their inaugural IPL title just three years ago.​

Hardik Pandya: From Adversity to Aspiration

The 2024 IPL season was a challenging chapter for Hardik Pandya. Under his leadership, MI finished at the bottom of the league table, securing only four wins. This outcome led to significant scrutiny of his captaincy and performance. Pandya's individual statistics reflected the team's struggles; he amassed just 216 runs and claimed 11 wickets across 14 matches.

However, Pandya's resilience shone through in the international arena. He played pivotal roles in India's triumphs at the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, showcasing his all-round capabilities. These successes have reignited faith in his leadership, making the upcoming IPL season crucial for his redemption. ​

Match Preview: Gujarat Titans' Home Advantage

Both MI and GT enter this match seeking their first win of the season after initial setbacks. The Ahmedabad pitch has proven to be a high-scoring venue. In the previous game, Punjab Kings posted a formidable 243 runs, a total that seemed chaseable at one point. ​

For MI, young talent Tilak Varma emerges as a key player. His consistent performances have been a silver lining for MI, and his contribution will be vital in this match. On the opposing side, GT's captain, Shubman Gill, boasts an impressive record at Ahmedabad, averaging over 60 at the venue.

Head-to-Head Record: Gujarat's Dominance in Ahmedabad

Historically, Ahmedabad has been GT's fortress. They've secured victories in all three encounters against MI at this venue. This statistic adds pressure on Pandya, who aims to overturn this trend and lead MI to a much-needed win. ​

A Pivotal Moment for Hardik Pandya

The forthcoming match is more than just a game; it's a pivotal moment in Hardik Pandya's leadership journey. A win would not only boost MI's standings but also solidify Pandya's position as a capable leader, erasing the memories of the previous season's disappointments. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely as the drama unfolds in Ahmedabad tonight.