Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 29: Mumbai Indians are on the brink of a historic achievement as they prepare to face Kolkata Knight Riders in their opening match of Indian Premier League 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday.

The five-time champions are set to become the first IPL franchise to play 300 T20 matches, marking a significant milestone in their journey. Overall, they will be only the third team in T20 history to reach this figure, following Pakistan national cricket team and Somerset County Cricket Club.

Among IPL teams, Mumbai ranks just behind Royal Challengers Bengaluru in total matches played, with the latter featuring in 287 games, while Kolkata Knight Riders have played 281. Mumbai’s tally includes 277 IPL matches across 18 seasons and 22 appearances in the now-defunct Champions League T20.

This landmark reflects not just longevity but also sustained dominance, with Mumbai Indians securing five IPL titles—in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020—jointly the most in the league alongside Chennai Super Kings.

Despite their illustrious record, Mumbai will also be aiming to break a long-standing trend. The team has struggled in season openers, having last won their first match of a campaign in 2012 against Chennai. Since then, they have managed just four wins in 18 opening fixtures, losing the remaining 14. Their inaugural IPL match in 2008 also ended in defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Over the years, the franchise has been home to some of the league’s biggest match-winners, including Lasith Malinga, Kieron Pollard, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ishan Kishan, all of whom have played key roles in shaping the team’s legacy.

With Hardik Pandya leading the side this season, Mumbai Indians will be eager to celebrate their 300th match milestone with a winning start and set the tone for a strong IPL 2026 campaign.