Mumbai, March 29 -- Shardul Thakur expressed delight after delivering a standout performance for the Mumbai Indians (MI), saying playing for his home franchise remains a special feeling, even as he reflected on the challenges and memories associated with the iconic venue Wankhede Stadium.

The five-time champions MI registered a dominant six-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in both teams' first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Ryan Rickelton and Rohit Sharma helped the Mumbai Indians secure their biggest run-chase in IPL history and also win their first season-opener since the 2012 edition of the IPL. Mumbai chased down a formidable target of 221 to defeat KKR in the second match of IPL 2026.

Thakur, who was ...