WATCH: Kusal Mendis’ bizarre hit-wicket dismissal during GT vs MI IPL 2025 Eliminator

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In a high-stakes IPL 2025 Eliminator between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians at Mullanpur, Kusal Mendis’ much-anticipated debut came to an abrupt and bizarre halt. The Sri Lankan batter, playing his very first IPL game, was dismissed in an unusual hit-wicket incident that left spectators stunned and his team in a tricky spot during their mammoth run chase.

The 29-year-old was thrust into action almost immediately, walking in during the very first over after GT captain Shubman Gill fell cheaply to Trent Boult. Mendis seemed unfazed by the occasion, timing the ball sweetly and scoring 20 runs off just 9 deliveries, including two towering sixes and a crisp four.

But just as momentum was shifting Gujarat’s way, the seventh over brought an extraordinary moment. Facing Mitchell Santner, Mendis attempted a pull shot that went cleanly toward deep mid-wicket. But as he pivoted on the back foot, he lost his balance and inadvertently stepped too deep into the crease. His back leg crashed into the stumps, dislodging the bails. In a comical twist, he also lost his footing entirely and landed flat on his back—a rare sight in professional cricket.

What happened there? 🤔

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Also READ: Fans brutally troll GT pacer Prasidh Krishna after MI batters thrash him in IPL 2025 Eliminator

Earlier in the evening, Mumbai Indians posted a massive 228/5, thanks largely to a vintage knock by Rohit Sharma, who smashed 81 off 39 balls. The Eliminator now stands delicately poised, with the winner earning a place in Qualifier 2 against Punjab Kings.

Notably, Mendis wasn’t originally part of Gujarat Titans’ IPL roster. However, with English star Jos Buttler leaving the squad to fulfill international commitments ahead of the playoffs, the franchise turned to the experienced Sri Lankan as a replacement. Despite several previous appearances in IPL auctions, this was Mendis’ first successful contract.

Also READ: Rohit Sharma joins Chris Gayle in an elite club of batters during GT vs MI IPL 2025 Eliminator