Beginning of a new rivalry? That's the question sparked among cricket fans when Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper Shubman Gill refused to shake hands with Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya after the toss. Hardik was ready for the ceremonial handshake, but Gill turned his head and decided to move on. That added some extra spice before the high-octane MI vs. GT match ignited. 

According to the rules, captains from both teams came onto the field for the toss. Gill and Pandya were looking at a good vibe before the clash, took pictures together, the toss went as per the plans, and then there was the moment when Gill refused to shake hands with Pandya. The cameraman did not dare to miss the moment, and later, it sparked controversy among cricket fans across the world. But why did Gill do that? That's a mystery for now. 

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and decided to bat first. His decision proved right when Rohit Sharma and Jonny Bairstow started to accelerate their innings against GT bowlers. Sharma's blazing 50-ball 81 was well supported by the English batter's 47 off 22 and Suryakumar Yadav's 33 off 20-ball innings. Pandya also played his part well and helped his team to post 228 in the first innings. The Mumbai skipper got an unbeaten 22 by facing only 9 deliveries, powered by 3 maximums. 

Read More: WATCH: Sai Sudharsan & Gerald Coetzee team up for stunning catch to dismiss Jonny Bairstow in IPL 2025 Eliminator

Gujarat Titans' innings was fumbled early as their skipper and opener, Gill, departed cheaply for only 1, facing a couple of deliveries. He misread Trent Boult's delivery and felt for a leg before the wicket. 

Hardik's own way to reply Gill 

After the lbw decision from the on-field umpire, Gill was having a chat with the opening partner Sai Sudharsan about the review call. At that moment, Hardik passed running Shubman Gill, shouting and celebrating intensely for the wicket.

The high-voltage Eliminator game got more heated for the newly formed rivalry between these two Team India star cricketers.

Watch here how the rivalry formed

Ego Clash? Thoughts?...#MIvsGT pic.twitter.com/3kxIGyxGyF

— U’ (@18toxify) May 30, 2025