The grand unveiling of the International Masters League (IML) 2025 showcased cricket legends reviving past glories as India Masters eked out a dramatic win over Sri Lanka Masters by a razor-thin margin of four runs. The iconic D.Y. Patil Stadium in Mumbai was abuzz with excitement as seasoned players walked back onto the pitch with an energy reminiscent of their heydays. This T20 clash was nothing short of a roller coaster, delivering thrills right from the first ball.
Batting first, India Masters put up a formidable score of 222/4 in the designated 20 overs. The major contributors to this total were Stuart Binny and Gurkeerat Singh Mann, who stitched together a crucial 87-run partnership for the third wicket. Binny played an explosive innings, smashing 68 off just 31 balls, an innings punctuated by seven massive sixes. Gurkeerat Singh Mann, not too far behind, displayed impeccable timing with his 44-run knock that came off 32 balls, embellished with seven lovely boundaries.
Add to that, Yusuf Pathan's power-hitting and Yuvraj Singh's elegance down the order were instrumental in pushing the score north of 220. Yusuf remained unbeaten on 56, a knock that stabilized the innings after the fireworks up top, while Yuvraj Singh added a classy 31 not out. However, the bowling tingled with some resistance, led by Suranga Lakmal's spirited effort, capturing 2/34 amidst the batting onslaught.
Sri Lanka's Spirited Reply
Not to be outdone, Sri Lanka Masters embarked on their chase with a win in sight. The ever-reliable Kumar Sangakkara spearheaded their innings with a quickfire 51 off just 30 balls, turning back the clock with his exquisite stroke play. Sri Lanka was very much in the game, fortified by this solid foundation.
The game took a heart-stopping turn as all-rounder Irfan Pathan unleashed a pivotal spell, claiming crucial wickets, including Sangakkara's, finishing with figures of 3/39. His efforts created a significant momentum shift favoring the Indians. As the overs dwindled, Sri Lanka's hope flickered with Jeevan Mendis' blistering 42 off merely 17 balls, coupled with Asela Gunaratne's well-paced 37.
The climax saw Abhimanyu Mithun stepping up, with his death-over bowling prowess. Taking two key wickets, Mithun managed to keep his nerve, ultimately sealing the deal for India despite Sri Lanka's valiant last-ditch efforts.
This opening face-off of the IML 2025 wasn't just about runs and wickets but a celebration of cricketing prowess that has inspired generations. The veterans demonstrated that their competitive edge remains undiminished, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the rest of the tournament.