Lucky they were back in the shed: Srikkanth rips into MI veterans after win vs GT

Former India captain Kris Srikkanth delivered a tongue-in-cheek critique of Mumbai Indians veterans after their emphatic win over Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026, crediting the team’s shift towards younger players.

Speaking on his Cheeky Cheeka podcast, Srikkanth took a humorous swipe at experienced pacers Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur, suggesting Mumbai were better off without them on the field. “Thank God, they sent both Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar to the shed,” he said, in his trademark light-hearted style.

GT vs MI: HIGHLIGHTS | SCORECARD

“At this point, I’m sure MI would be telling them, ‘You both just go take your seats in the shed and do not come out again’,” he added, underlining his point with characteristic wit.

UNCAPPED STARS SHINE FOR MI

Srikkanth pointed to the impact of Mumbai’s uncapped bowlers, praising their discipline and execution. He singled out young pacers Krish Bhagat and Ashwani Kumar for their performances, noting their ability to maintain consistent lengths under pressure.

“Just take a look at the lengths they bowled at, sheer Test match level discipline,” he said, highlighting how the youngsters stepped up in a crucial game.

Ashwani, playing his first match of the season, returned impressive figures of 4 for 24, while Mitchell Santner chipped in with two wickets as Mumbai dismantled Gujarat’s batting line-up.

TILAK CENTURY SETS UP DOMINANT WIN

Earlier, a stunning century from Tilak Varma laid the foundation for Mumbai’s commanding performance. The left-hander smashed 101 off just 45 balls to propel his side to 199 for 5.

In response, Gujarat Titans never found momentum after Jasprit Bumrah struck with the first ball to dismiss Sai Sudharsan. The early blow triggered a collapse as the hosts were bowled out for just 100 in 15.5 overs.

Srikkanth also pointed to Gujarat’s fragile middle order, which once again struggled under pressure. The former opener suggested that the lack of consistency in that department continues to be a concern for the Titans.

The 99-run victory helped Mumbai Indians snap a four-match losing streak and climb to seventh place in the standings, with the performance offering a timely boost driven by youth and a renewed bowling edge.

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