IPL 2018 – Match 14 – Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Preview

It’s going to be very interesting to see ow both these teams approach this game, which will be vital to the rest of their season from here. Both have had a slow start to the 2018 Indian Premier League, with Royal Challengers Bangalore recording one win in three games, and Mumbai Indians losing all their three games thus far!

Teams

When you look at these two teams on paper, and even when you look at their record in the Indian Premier League, you would happily pick Mumbai Indians as favourites to win this game. We all know that they begin their campaign slow, and catch up towards the end, and it may be time for them to start winning now. A jaded RCB would be the perfect opposition they would want to play at the moment, along with the home ground advantage.


However, let’s not forget that RCB possess batsmen that are capable of batting on any pitch across the world. I had earlier said that RCB possess no batting strength once the top four (de Kock, de Villiers, Kohli, McCullum) are dismissed but we saw some brilliant shot making from Mandeep Singh and Washington Sundar in the last game, where they lost but coming close while chasing 218 showed a lot of character, which has increased my faith in this team slightly.

MI v RCB

Hardik Pandya’s return to fitness was a boost to the MI squad but it’s bee the elder brother Krunal who has made more of an impact thus far. Also, the MI openers will be key. Lewis has shown signs of destruction in his three games but gets out after getting a start while scores of 15, 11 and 18 are what captain Rohit has got so far. Disappointing!

The most interesting battle will be that of the captains Rohit and Virat. The Indian limited overs team captain and vice-captain will be up against each other, and both will have a lot of plans set in place to dismiss their counterparts. The last thing any opposition would want is bowling to an on-song Kohli or Rohit Sharma.

Overall

I maaaaaay be slightly biased while making my pick today and choosing the Royal Challengers Bangalore for the win. If RCB lose this one, I’m sensing another loose season like how they had last year. Mumbai, however, are used to opening their account late but still making it to the play-offs!

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About Dwayne Fernandes 2315 Articles
Indian, 28 years old. Avid cricket fan. Business Management Graduate. Twitter and Instagram - @dwayneeeboy