Arch rivals Mumbai, Chennai ready for battle
Rohit Sharma’s elegance and Suryakumar Yadav’s flamboyance will be pitted against the power of Faf du Plessis and grace of Ruturaj Gaikwad when heavyweights Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) cross swords in the IPL here on Saturday.
Mumbai and Chennai head into the match following identical seven-wicket wins over Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) respectively. And, both teams would be keen to continue their winning streak.
The biggest positive for MI has been the return to form of opener Quinton de Kock, who made an unbeaten 70 against Rajasthan. The faltering middle-order also clicked in the previous game, on a relatively easy batting track compared to the one in Chennai.
Suryakumar would hope to convert his starts while Krunal Pandya would have gained confidence from his useful cameo against Rajasthan. Krunal, who was promoted to the No.4 slot, will look to continue from where he left off. Having displayed his hard-hitting skills in the last match, Kieron Pollard would be raring to make a match-winning contribution down the order. Hardik Pandya has been on a lean patch, but would aim to end the barren run as soon as possible.
Pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult have been exceptional, particularly at the death. The right-left combination will have to be at its best if it is to contain the CSK batsmen. Leggie Rahul Chahar, with 11 scalps, is MI’s leading wicket-taker. He would, however, need support from seasoned off-spinner Jayant Yadav and Krunal.
Meanwhile, Super Kings has been a force to reckon with, having won five of its six games. Openers du Plessis and Ruturaj have been in top form and would have their eyes on another strong start. CSK’s middle-order has also been amongst the runs. Moeen Ali has adjusted well to the role of a pinch-hitter, while Suresh Raina has lent balance to the side while batting at No.4.
They will be followed by Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja and skipper MS Dhoni, making Super Kings a top batting unit. With all-rounder Sam Curran also in its ranks, CSK has the resources to attack from ball one. Pacers Deepak Chahar and Curran have done a good job with the ball, while Shardul Thakur could be decisive in breaking partnerships. Jadeja has also showed his worth alongside spin-bowling partner Moeen.