Gujarat Titans beat Mumbai Indians by 6 runs

In his debut as captain for Mumbai Indians after transferring from Gujarat Titans in the off-season, Pandya faced a barrage of boos from the crowd, particularly noticeable during the toss and while fielding. Opting to open the bowling himself instead of Jasprit Bumrah raised eyebrows, as did his strategic decisions involving former skipper Rohit Sharma.

Despite Rohit's contribution of 43 runs off 29 balls, Mumbai Indians stumbled after his dismissal, requiring 62 runs off 48 balls with eight wickets in hand. Gujarat Titans capitalized, tightening their bowling to concede only three boundaries until the final over. Pandya, batting at No.7, came to the crease late but fought back with a six and a four, reducing the required runs to nine off four balls. However, despite his efforts, Mumbai Indians fell short by six runs. The defeat extends Mumbai Indians' streak of poor performances in IPL opening games since 2012, despite the change in leadership with Pandya's appointment as captain.