MI vs RPS: A ‘local derby’ with much more than pride at stake

Mumbai Indians will be looking to settle scores when they take on the Rising Pune Supergiant in a game billed as the local derby, at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday night. Mumbai Indians have lost only one game this season and that defeat was inflicted by Rising Pune Supergiant in their tournament opener.

As the teams brace up for the return leg, the stage has been set by Saturday’s exhilarating action involving the two outfits. Mumbai Indians warmed up for the encounter with a thrilling win over Delhi Daredevils, built on the tremendous performance of their bowlers. An equally-sensational effort from Pune Supergiant’s Mahendra Singh Dhoni has added to the excitement around the tie.

The two Maharashtra sides have had contrasting fortunes since their first game, with MI soaring to great heights with six wins in six, while Supergiant’s campaign floundered. However, the return leg comes at a time when the Steve Smith-led side has also picked up momentum, with two wins in their last two games.

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