IPL 2025: Is it a Joy to Bat with Rohit for Bairstow?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jonny Bairstow made an impactful debut in IPL 2025.
- The partnership between Bairstow and Rohit Sharma was vital for MI's success.
- MI's total of 228 was key to their victory over GT.
- Bairstow's nerves were channelled positively during the match.
- Experienced bowlers played a crucial role in restricting GT's score.
New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) After his 47 played a crucial role in the Mumbai Indians' 20-run victory over the Gujarat Titans during the Eliminator match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow expressed his delight in sharing the pitch with seasoned opener Rohit Sharma. He praised Rohit as one of the finest players for providing a strong start with the bat.
Making his debut in IPL 2025 as a late replacement for Ryan Rickleton, Bairstow formed a dynamic 84-run partnership off 44 balls for the first wicket with Rohit, who scored a blistering 81 off 50 balls, leading MI to a formidable total of 228/5.
This total ensured their advancement to Qualifier 2, where they will compete against Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. “Honestly, I don’t have much to teach Rohit. He has amassed over 7,000 IPL runs,” Bairstow commented.
“His vast experience against various bowlers globally makes him one of the best in the game. Batting alongside him and forming a partnership that gave us a solid start was gratifying for both me and the team,” Bairstow said in a video released on iplt20.com on Saturday.
During his remarkable innings, Bairstow hit four boundaries and three sixes at an impressive strike rate of 213.64. “It’s been amazing to receive the call to join the Mumbai Indians, and the fact that we qualified to play in Ahmedabad with all this momentum is truly fantastic,” he added.
“Nerves are always present when playing any match, and that’s part of the excitement. If channeled correctly, those nerves can elevate your performance. If you're ever not nervous, it might be time to reconsider your career. I genuinely enjoyed my time on the field; those nerves felt positive,” Bairstow continued.
He also commended seasoned bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, and Richard Gleeson for their stellar efforts in limiting GT to 208/6. “They executed their roles exceptionally well, particularly during the chase,” he remarked.
“While there was some dew, having the knowledge and experience of bowlers like Jasprit and Boult, we relied on them to deliver when it mattered, which they did. Gleeson’s wicket of Sai was crucial as well,” Bairstow noted.
He concluded by discussing the upcoming challenge in Qualifier 2. “The atmosphere is positive right now. We have a quick turnaround as we head to Ahmedabad for our game in just two days. The mood is great, but we must sustain this momentum for the next 48 hours.