Sunrisers Hyderabad began their IPL 2018 campaign with a resounding win over Rajasthan Royals who were making their comeback to the IPL. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians were strolling to a victory in their opening game until brilliance from Dwayne Bravo swung the match around, and CSK won by 1 wicket. This game has potential of being a blockbuster!
Teams
The Mumbai Indians have a solid, attacking batting line-up, while Sunrisers Hyderabad arguably have the best bowling attack in the league. Evin Lewis is one Windies batsman who could be more destructive than Chris Gayle on his day, and he will open with Rohit Sharma, who is one of the best in T20 cricket anyway. Following them are the Pandya brothers and the mighty Kieron Pollard. Hardik Pandya was absent at both of Mumbai’s training session, after that niggle he picked up in the last game. Saurabh Tiwary may replace him, if needed.
But these stroke players will be up against the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rashid Khan. Let’s not forget that they have other good bowlers too, like Siddarth Kaul who finished with match winning figures of 2?17 against RR. Billy Stanlake produced bounce and he will certainly be vital against the likes of Pollard and Lewis, who aren’t good with short stuff. Shakib al Hasan will be another wicket-taking option.
Mumbai may be slightly lacking in their bowling department. The Fizz and McClenaghan played the first game and the latter took a beating, conceding way too many runs. However, he should get an extended run as Pat Cummins has been ruled out of IPL 2018 with a back injury, and no replacement has been named yet. They will be happy that Mayank Markande had a good debut, and they can rely on him a little bit now.
Overall
Like I said, it’s going to be Sunrisers’ bowling against the batting prowess of Mumbai Indians. Watch out for young Ishan Kishan, who is playing the wicket-keeper role in the Mumbai team, but he showed how good he can be with the bat as well, with a 40(29) in the first game. I believe Sunrisers Hyderabad will win this game.
Kane Williamson stepped up and showed good leadership qualities, so David Warner will not be missed. Additionally, Shikhar Dhawan is in mind-blowing form. Let’s not forget that SRH have the home advantage and that Mumbai like losing their first few games in every season of the Indian Premier League. These two teams have a head-to-head history of 5-5, while SRH lead 3-2 at this venue. All signs point towards an SRH win.
Read also:
- Cricket Scoops
- IPL 2018 all 8 team previews
- A guide to getting FREE IPL 2018 live streaming
- Play our IPL 2018 predictor and WIN LOADS OF EXCITING PRIZES!