IPL Match Prediction: MI to bank on their home support, but Dhoni's men likely to have the last laugh
THE MUMBAI INDIANS and debutants Rising Pune SuperGiants will lock horns in the opening match of the 2016 IPL at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai today.
While the defending champions have retained their core team, the newcomers might take some time to adjust as a unit. That said, there is plenty of experience in the Pune team and the leadership of stalwart MS Dhoni will arguably be the biggest boost the Pune franchise can get going into the tournament.
The SuperGiants had a successful outing at the auction early in the year and have superstars in Steven Smith, Faf du Plessis and Kevin Pietersen in their roster. Meanwhile, the hosts will be delighted to welcome the England dynamic wicket-keeper batsman Jos Butler.
The wicket at the Wankhede is likely to produce another high-scoring game and given the power-packed line-up of both teams, expect the ball to travel to all parts of the ground.
The Mumbai Indians will rely heavily on their skipper Rohit Sharma to lead by example, but the batsman’s form has been a worry lately and it remains to be seen if he gets back to opening the batting tonight. The big-hitters in Hardik Pandya and Kieron Pollard too will play a vital role down the order.
On the bowling front, Harbhajan Singh will be their number one strike bowler and plenty will also be expected from the upcoming sensation Jasprit Bumrah. Sri Lankan Lasith Malinga won’t be available for the first half of the tournament and which means, Kiwi paceman Mitch McCleneghan who has done well for MI in the previous season will operate with the new ball.
Meanwhile, Pune will strongly pin hopes on their formidable batting. That said, their bowling could come under some fire. The likes of Ishant Sharma, Ishwar Pandey and Irfan Pathan can all be taken to the cleaners. However, Pune have arguably the best spinner in Ravi Ashwin, who is likely to get wickets at regular intervals.
It’s the opening match of the IPL and both teams would be trying to get used to the atmosphere and pressure. The team that adjusts quickly to the demand and conditions will have an edge. MI will have all their supporters behind them, but the men in blue have historically been poor starters in the tournament.
On the other hand, Dhoni has the reputation of taking off early. Although Pune will make their debut in a few hours from now, it’s difficult to not pick Dhoni’s men as the favourites for this clash.
