MI vs RCB: By now, the Mumbai Indians have carved an infamous reputation for poor starts — both in terms of tournament beginnings and match openers. This season, the first six overs — the PowerPlay — have been particularly damaging for them, often determining the outcome early and not in their favour.
The statistics present a concerning picture. Across four matches, MI has lost eight wickets during PowerPlays — the second-most among all teams — and claimed just five wickets in return, again the second-worst record. Only Punjab Kings have a lower tally in terms of wickets taken during this crucial phase.
Their best PowerPlay performance came in their only win so far—against Kolkata Knight Riders—where they picked up four wickets in the first six overs and lost just one. It’s clear: MI’s fate hinges heavily on those opening six overs.
Mahela Jayawardene acknowledged the issue:
“We’ve studied the numbers. Starting the season with a fresh group does come with challenges, and PowerPlay is definitely an area we need to control better. When we’ve done that, we’ve come across as a different team. It’s something we’re actively working to improve.”
All eyes on Bumrah and Rohit.
The return of two key players, Jasprit Bumrah and Rohit Sharma, should bolster Mumbai. Bumrah, who has missed the season so far, has confirmed his fitness for the RCB clash. We are still monitoring Rohit’s status, but the signs are promising. The pair’s presence, especially during the PowerPlay, could be critical for MI’s revival.
RCB Confident Despite Setback
On the other side, Royal Challengers Bengaluru remain confident despite their recent loss to Gujarat Titans. With a top order comprising Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, and Rajat Patidar, and a bowling attack featuring Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Suyash Sharma, RCB look balanced and dangerous.
“It’s been a great start for us — big away wins at KKR and CSK. The GT loss was a blip. We’re looking forward to playing at Wankhede,” said Tim David, now donning RCB colours against his former team.
Match Details:
Date: Monday, April 7
Time: 7:30 PM IST
Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
Conditions: Expect a high-scoring contest with a batting-friendly red-soil pitch and short boundaries. Dew could be a factor, giving an edge to the chasing side.
Head-to-Head:
- MI lead RCB 19-14 overall.
- At Wankhede: MI dominate 8-3.
- RCB haven’t won at this venue since 2015, losing six straight games.
Team News & Tactics
Mumbai Indians:
- In: Jasprit Bumrah (confirmed)
- Doubtful: Rohit Sharma’s fitness status is under review.
- Likely Changes: Ashwani Kumar may be dropped for the tactical inclusion of Vignesh Puthur.
- PowerPlay Focus: Boult and Chahar may continue new-ball duties; Bumrah is likely to bowl in middle and death overs.
Probable XII: Rohit Sharma, Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Naman Dhir, Raj Bawa, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Vignesh Puthur
Royal Challengers Bengaluru:
No injuries reported.
- Strategy: Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar to attack early; Suyash Sharma to key in the middle overs.
- Key Match-ups: Bhuvneshwar vs Rohit, Hazlewood vs Suryakumar
Probable XII: Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma
Did You Know?
- MI took 4 wickets in the PowerPlay against KKR but only 1 combined in the other 3 matches.
- Hardik Pandya has the most wickets from hard-length deliveries in IPL 2025 (7).
- Tim David boasts the highest strike rate (220.83) in death overs this season.
Quotes of the Day:
Mahela Jayawardene (MI Head Coach):
“We’ve been in the game for most matches. Execution is key. If we stay aggressive and clinical like we were in the KKR game, the results will come.”
Tim David (RCB):
“Bittersweet returning to Mumbai. I have a wealth of memories from my time here. But I’m excited to contribute for RCB now and hopefully do some damage tomorrow night.” Source cricbuzz
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