The rivalry between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) may be relatively new in the Indian Premier League (IPL), but in a very short span of time it has become one of the most talked-about contests in modern IPL history. What makes this rivalry special is not just the matches played, but the context in which these matches happened—new team versus the most successful franchise, established superstars versus fresh leaders, and pressure situations that decided playoff destinies and even IPL finals.
Mumbai Indians, one of the most decorated franchises in IPL history with multiple championship titles, entered this rivalry carrying legacy, experience, and star power. On the other hand, Gujarat Titans arrived in IPL 2022 as a brand-new franchise and shocked the cricketing world with their calm approach, tactical brilliance, and fearless cricket under Hardik Pandya’s leadership.
This article provides a deep, chronological, and analytical timeline of the Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Titans rivalry. From their very first clash to playoff battles and league-stage thrillers, every important moment is covered in detail. You will also find a complete timeline table, head-to-head analysis, key player performances, tactical evolution, and how this rivalry shaped the modern IPL era.
The Gujarat Titans were introduced to the IPL in 2022 as part of the league’s expansion, along with Lucknow Super Giants. While most experts predicted a slow start for the new teams, Gujarat Titans surprised everyone by assembling a balanced squad and appointing Hardik Pandya as captain.
Hardik Pandya’s move from Mumbai Indians to Gujarat Titans added instant spice to the rivalry. Having spent several years with MI and winning multiple IPL titles, Hardik now led a team that would face his former franchise multiple times in high-pressure matches.
Mumbai Indians entered IPL 2022 in a transition phase. The team released Hardik Pandya and made Rohit Sharma the undisputed leader once again. MI struggled initially, finishing last in 2022, which further highlighted the contrast between a rebuilding giant and a newly formed, confident challenger.
This contrast laid the foundation of a rivalry that would grow rapidly with every season.
| Season | Match Date | Venue | Match Type | Winner | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | April 29, 2022 | MCA Stadium, Pune | League Match | Gujarat Titans | GT defended a low total; Hardik Pandya starred |
| 2022 | May 6, 2022 | Brabourne Stadium | League Match | Gujarat Titans | GT completed a league double over MI |
| 2023 | April 25, 2023 | Narendra Modi Stadium | League Match | Gujarat Titans | GT dominated with all-round performance |
| 2023 | May 12, 2023 | Wankhede Stadium | League Match | Mumbai Indians | MI registered first win vs GT |
| 2023 | May 26, 2023 | Ahmedabad | Qualifier 2 | Gujarat Titans | GT knocked MI out of IPL 2023 |
| 2023 | May 29, 2023 | Ahmedabad | Final | Chennai Super Kings | GT lost final, MI rivalry peaked earlier |
| 2024 | League Stage | Ahmedabad | League Match | Mumbai Indians | MI dominated GT convincingly |
| 2024 | League Stage | Mumbai | League Match | Gujarat Titans | GT bounced back strongly |
| 2025 | League Stage | TBD | League Match | TBD | Upcoming fixture |
The first match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans took place during IPL 2022, and it instantly made headlines. Gujarat Titans batted first and posted a modest total, but their bowling unit, led by Mohammed Shami and Rashid Khan, put on a disciplined performance.
Mumbai Indians struggled with the chase and eventually lost the match. Hardik Pandya’s calm captaincy and all-round contribution stood out, making the victory even more special against his former team.
The second league match saw Gujarat Titans once again defeating Mumbai Indians. GT completed a league double over MI, showcasing superior team balance and execution. For MI, this season became one of their worst IPL campaigns, while GT marched confidently toward the playoffs.
By the end of IPL 2022, it was clear that Gujarat Titans were not just another new team—they were a serious force.
In IPL 2023, the first encounter between MI and GT was held at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Gujarat Titans outplayed Mumbai Indians comprehensively, with Shubman Gill playing a crucial innings and Rashid Khan controlling the middle overs.
Mumbai’s bowling looked ineffective, and Gujarat registered another dominant win, extending their winning streak against MI.
The second league match of IPL 2023 marked a turning point. Playing at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Indians finally managed to defeat Gujarat Titans for the first time.
Suryakumar Yadav played a match-winning knock, and MI’s bowling unit executed their plans perfectly. This win gave MI confidence heading into the playoffs and proved that the rivalry was now truly competitive.
One of the most important matches in the MI vs GT timeline came during Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023. The winner would advance to the IPL final, making it a do-or-die contest.
Gujarat Titans delivered a near-perfect performance. Shubman Gill scored a sensational century, completely dismantling Mumbai’s bowling attack. Despite MI’s aggressive batting lineup, they failed to chase the massive target.
This match is often considered the defining moment of the rivalry, as Gujarat Titans knocked out one of IPL’s most successful teams in a crucial playoff match.
In IPL 2024, both teams came prepared with refined strategies. Gujarat Titans focused on their bowling combinations, while Mumbai Indians emphasized aggressive power-play batting.
The first league match saw MI winning convincingly, breaking Gujarat’s dominance and showcasing their improved squad balance.
In the reverse fixture, Gujarat Titans bounced back strongly. Their bowlers restricted MI to a manageable total, and the batters chased it comfortably, once again proving their adaptability.
By the end of IPL 2024, the rivalry was evenly poised, with both teams winning crucial matches against each other.
Hardik Pandya remains the central figure in this rivalry. His leadership for Gujarat Titans against his former franchise added emotional depth and strategic intrigue to every encounter.
As MI’s captain, Rohit Sharma faced the challenge of rebuilding a champion team while countering a fearless new opponent. His tactical decisions often shaped close encounters.
Shubman Gill’s consistency and big-match performances, especially in playoff games, played a massive role in Gujarat’s success against MI.
Whenever Mumbai Indians gained momentum in this rivalry, Suryakumar Yadav’s explosive batting was usually at the center of it.
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 8+ |
| Gujarat Titans Wins | 5 |
| Mumbai Indians Wins | 3 |
| No Result | 0 |
Gujarat Titans currently hold a slight edge, especially in high-pressure matches.
The MI vs GT rivalry stands out because it combines legacy with freshness. Mumbai Indians represent tradition, trophies, and experience, while Gujarat Titans symbolize innovation, fearless leadership, and rapid success.
The emotional storyline of former teammates facing each other, combined with playoff drama and consistent competitiveness, makes this rivalry one of the most engaging in modern IPL history.
As the IPL continues to evolve, the rivalry between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans is only expected to grow stronger. With young talent emerging on both sides and leadership dynamics constantly changing, future seasons promise even more thrilling encounters.
From Gujarat’s stunning debut dominance to Mumbai’s gradual resurgence, the MI vs GT timeline reflects the essence of IPL—unpredictable, competitive, and deeply emotional. Cricket fans can confidently expect this rivalry to remain a highlight of the IPL for many years to come.