MI’s net run rate is – 0.620 which is third worst after Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, both teams sit below MI in the points table.
Mumbai Indians still have 11 matches left to their course so there is a possibility that they will make a comeback because this the team of superstars players like Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav and Tim David. Once they all get on a role, it will tough to stop them because such is the magnitude of their strength which primarily lies in their batting line-up.
The Bowling Is In Middle Muddle For Mumbai
MI’s bowling attack remains a big concern for the entire team. Despite starting good with the ball, they somehow find a way to lose all the hard work in the last few overs.
MI bowling cartel has conceded 96 runs in the last five overs against Punjab Kings, then 77 runs in the last five overs against Gujarat Titans. In total, that makes up 173 runs in 10 overs.
These are upsetting numbers for a team that has won the IPL 5 times. This tells us how big of a player Jaspreet bumrah was for Mumbai Indians. Their bowling looked superb when he was leading the attack.
Jofra Archer is in the team but he hasn’t looked as promising as he looked in international cricket. Riley Meredith has been good but there is no support from the other side.
Jason Behrendorff is a go to bowler in the initial overs but his death bowling ability is not full proof. Even in the Big Bash League, Perth Scorchers use him as an upfront bowler, he bowls at least 3 overs in first 10 overs and his last over is adjusted according to the match situation.
Talking about fielding which is a supporting element for any bowler, MI have been let loose in that zone. Against GT, a crucial catch drop of David Miller cost them at least 15 runs. If things continue to go on the same track, the trouble is not diminishing anytime soon for MI bowlers.
Kumar Kartikey is skillful bowler for sure but his mistake was to check David Miller on flighted off delivery and the kind of power Miller possess, it was easy for him send the ball into orbit.
Mumbai Indians Should Make Best Of Home Advantage
Home games are always crucial because in any case a team wants to register a win in favourable conditions. However Mumbai Indians have lost two home games this season, one against CSK and the other one against PBKS.
MI is yet to play five games at Wankhede, they should seriously attempt to win 4 of them if not 5. When playing at Wankhede a good start is as good as golden, either you batting first or batting second.
In that case, Ishan Kishan has to lift up his game, he is taking too much time and indeed too many balls to get going which also puts pressure on Rohit Sharma who is forced to throw away his wicket.
A complete batting unit with substantial support from the bowling can win games at home very easily and CSK has done throughout the years, their home record is exceptional and that’s why they are the best team of the tournament.
Mumbai will play its next match at Wankhede against Rajasthan Royals on 30th April. That can be the game which will set them in motion, but the outcome will purely depend on learning and improvements made on what has already gone past.