Mumbai Indians kept their hopes of qualifying for the IPL-8 playoffs alive with a 5-run win over holders Kolkata Knight Riders.

The hero for MI with the bat was Hardik Pandya, who smashed a 31-ball 61 and gave them a solid total of 171/4. The score would have better if not for the overrated Kieron Pollard (33* off 38).

KKR, in reply, got off to a decent start and a handy innings from Yusuf Pathan (52 off 37) took them close to the target. But Lasith Malinga (1/31) once again held his nerves in the death to secure a win.

Mumbai, with the win, have reached the top-4 with 14 points while KKR are second with 15. And for both teams, their next encounter will be a do-or-die affair.

All images courtesy: IPLT20.COM