IPL 2024: After narrow opening defeats, MI and SRH target first win of the season | Cricket News

Mumbai Indians (MI) will be keen to deliver a decisive blow after faltering in a straightforward run-chase in their opener, as they face the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League on Wednesday.
Despite notable contributions such as incisive spells from pacer Jasprit Bumrah, Dewald Brevis’ impactful innings and Rohit Sharma‘s explosive performance at the top of the order, the five-time champions MI fell short against the Gujarat Titans.

Known for their slow starts in previous seasons, MI’s inability to score 48 runs off 36 balls with seven wickets in hand highlights the heightened competition in the 10-team event, necessitating a more focused and determined approach from Mumbai going forward.

In his maiden game as Mumbai’s captain, Hardik Pandya opted to bat down the order at number seven, accommodating players like Tim David and Brevis in the top order. Given his higher batting position for the Gujarat Titans last year, there’s a valid argument for him to move up the order.
Opener Ishan Kishan, returning to action after a hiatus, faced only four balls against GT. With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, his performance will be closely scrutinized, emphasizing the need for him to excel with both bat and as a wicketkeeper to secure a spot in the national squad.
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Hardik will also anticipate an improved showing from spinners Shams Mulani and Piyush Chawla.

Facing SRH on home turf, Mumbai will be wary of the Pat Cummins-led side’s capabilities, evident from their recent match against Kolkata Knight Riders where Heinrich Klaasen almost single-handedly salvaged a dire situation.
While the opening pair of Mayank Agarwal and Abhishek Sharma has displayed promise, consistency will be key for SRH’s success in the tournament. SRH have invested significantly in pinch hitter Abdul Samad, who will expect to play to his potential and contribute significantly.

Seasoned campaigner Bhuvneshwar Kumar faced a tough outing against KKR but the right-arm pacer will be determined to bounce back strongly for SRH.
“Tough job in cricket to bowl to someone like him (Russell). It’s one of those ones which goes one way or the other. Who would have thought we would have got that close? Unfortunately, a bit too much. Lots to be encouraged by. A couple of points to work on also,” Cummins said after the narrow loss at Eden Gardens.
(With PTI inputs)