In a crucial mid-table battle at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Indians (MI) locked horns with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), both sides entering the contest with identical records — five wins and four losses. Much of MI’s confidence ahead of the clash revolved around Rohit Sharma’s welcome return to form.
The ‘Hitman’ had rediscovered his touch, registering consecutive 60-plus scores after a lean patch where he struggled to cross 30. Fans were once again brimming with hope for another trademark Rohit masterclass. However, LSG’s young pace sensation, Mayank Yadav, had other plans, injecting early drama into the contest. After smashing the youngster for a couple of sixes, Rohit was dismissed by Mayank in the same over.
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At the toss, LSG skipper Rishabh Pant opted to bowl first, explaining, “In a day game, you want to use the surface early. We’re in a good space mentally, and when you put the team first, it becomes easier. We take every day as our first. One change — Shardul is out, and Mayank Yadav comes in.”
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Meanwhile, MI captain Hardik Pandya shared that batting first didn’t worry them too much despite the Mumbai heat. “We were planning to bowl, but we don’t mind batting. It’s about adapting. ESA games are always special, the initiative by the Ambanis motivates us. We want to put on a show for the children. Momentum helps, but in the IPL, every match matters. Two changes for us — Karn Sharma replaces Mitchell Santner, and Corbin Bosch makes his debut as Puthur misses out.”
With playoff spots on the line, both teams knew that every move would be crucial — and the stage was set for an intense afternoon at Wankhede.
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Mumbai Indians (Playing XI): Ryan Rickelton(w), Rohit Sharma, Will Jacks, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya(c), Naman Dhir, Corbin Bosch, Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma
Mumbai Indians (Playing XI): Ryan Rickelton(w), Rohit Sharma, Will Jacks, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya(c), Naman Dhir, Corbin Bosch, Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma
