The Maharashtra Premier League (MPL) 2025 kicked off in spectacular fashion as Mandar Bhandari lit up the tournament opener with a breathtaking century. Playing for the Eagle Nashik Titans, Bhandari smashed a scintillating 112 off just 56 balls to lead his side to a comprehensive eight-wicket win over the Ratnagiri Jets. The opening night of MPL 2025 couldn’t have asked for a better headliner, as Bhandari’s ton set a thrilling tone for what promises to be a gripping season.
In the first innings of this MPL 2025 clash, the Ratnagiri Jets put up a competitive total, thanks largely to the efforts of Dhiraj Phatangare and skipper Azim Kazi. Phatangare remained unbeaten on 81 off 47 balls, anchoring the innings after early wickets. Azim Kazi played a vital supporting role with a fluent 42 off 31 deliveries. Despite their efforts, the Jets finished with 194/6 in their 20 overs—an above-par score that set the stage for a fiery chase, typical of high-scoring games in the MPL.
The Nashik Titans’ bowling attack, led by Mukesh Choudhary, showed control during crucial phases of the match. Choudhary picked up three wickets for 43 runs, giving the Titans a chance to restrict the Jets’ momentum. His efforts were well supported by Akshay Waikar, who bowled a tight spell and conceded just 26 runs. In the context of the fast-paced MPL format, such disciplined bowling performances are vital, and Nashik’s attack held its own under pressure.
Chasing 195, the Titans needed a strong start, and Mandar Bhandari ensured they got much more than that. The wicketkeeper-batter was in sublime form, taking the game away from the Jets within the first 10 overs. His century was a masterclass in modern T20 batting—filled with clean striking, calculated risks, and powerful hitting. Bhandari’s 112 included 12 fours and 5 sixes, and he paced his innings beautifully, maintaining control throughout. Performances like this underline the individual brilliance on offer in the MPL and its ability to showcase future national talent.
Bhandari’s explosive innings didn’t just earn him the Player of the Match award; it also gave the Nashik Titans a huge net run rate boost—crucial in a tightly contested league like the MPL. With this kind of form, Bhandari has instantly become a player to watch in the tournament. His command over the bowlers and aggressive approach will likely shape the Titans’ campaign moving forward in MPL 2025.
As MPL 2025 continues, the spotlight will firmly remain on performers like Mandar Bhandari who can single-handedly change the complexion of matches. His hundred against Ratnagiri has already become the defining moment of the opening week, and if he continues in this vein, the Nashik Titans will be serious title contenders. The MPL has once again proven why it is a vital platform for unearthing and showcasing top-tier cricketing talent from Maharashtra.