From Tendulkar-Smith to Rohit-Rickelton - Celebrating the highest partnerships for MI in history
In the franchisee world of Mumbai Indians, partnerships are never only about the runs made by two individuals, in fact they define the true sense of belief being multiplied. Over the last 18 seasons, MI have mastered the art of turning talented duos into master destroyers of opposition bowling attacks. From legends who laid the foundation, to now gen-next carrying it forward… the legacy of the 5-time IPL champions speaks volumes.
Let us look at Mumbai Indian’s top four Highest Partnerships by runs over the years in T20s.
167 - Rohit Sharma and Herschelle Gibbs, Kolkata, 2012
On 12th May 2012, our very own hitman, Rohit Sharma along with Herschelle Gibbs shared a record unbeaten 167 runs partnership for the second wicket, dismantling the rival bowling attack with effortless class. MI won that clash by 27 runs versus opponents Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. It was here, that our Mumbaicha Raja, Rohit smashed his maiden IPL century, 109* in 60 balls while Gibbs contributed 66* in 58 deliveries. This ended KKR’s unbeaten run of seven games.
163 - Dwayne Smith and Sachin Tendulkar, Jaipur, 2012
20th May 2012 saw Mumbai’s star Sachin Tendulkar and POTM Dwayne Smith stitch an unbeaten 163 runs stand for the opening partnership at Jaipur. The master blaster contributed 58* in 51 deliveries while the Smith Storm dented the opposition with 87*(58). MI won by 10 wickets with 12 balls to spare. RR were surprised as MI sent out Sachin-Smith to open, marking their eighth different opening combination that season.
148 - Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton, Mumbai, 2026
The 14-year jinx ended on 29th March 2026, as MI clinched a first match victory by 6 wickets. Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton’s 148 runs opening partnership, became the third highest for the men in blue and gold in T20s versus KKR at the Wankhede Stadium. Rohit anchored the innings with 78(38) while Rickelton’s fearless 81(43) was pure nostalgia. A blend of experience and class gave Paltan immense joy and a memorable experience.
143 - Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma, Mumbai, 2024
Mr. 360 Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma shared a great 143 runs partnership for the 4th wicket, leading MI to a seven-wicket win versus Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede Stadium on 6th May 2024. Scoops, sweeps, flicks, and maximums were the highlight of the show as POTM Surya dada played an explosive knock of 102 in 51 balls. TV played second fiddle with a composed 37 in 32 balls, which is now the fourth highest runs partnership for MI in T20s.
Every great MI story begins with partnerships that hit the opposition harder than boundaries!