IPL 2017 : What is the reason behind Mumbai”s good start in IPL? Mumbai Indians have had quite an uncharacteristically stable start to their IPL campaign. A team which are known to be slow starters in the league have played quality cricket on their home turf to find themselves at 3rd spot on the table after 3 matches.
And the best part about it was it all came without much of contribution from Rohit Sharma and Ambati Rayudu, two of their seasoned campaigners. Rayudu was ruled out for 10 days after suffering grade 1 groin strain while Rohit Sharma is yet to fire in last tournament. But what different they have done this season that has been the reason for good start?
Here are the possible reasons:-
5) Buttler”s move to the top of the order
There has been fair degree of debate over Rohit batting position in the team. While many believe he should open the innings he raised everyone”s eyebrows by sending Buttler to open the innings and give him freedom. Buttler has looked good every time he has came out to bat even though he is yet to convert 20s and 30s into a real biggie.
– by Atharva Apte
4) Nitish Rana
©BCCI/IPL
Nitish Rana has been the biggest plus for MI this season. He has soaked pressure in middle overs, also played some sparkling shots and held one end. MI would hope he carries on his good work.
3) The Pandyas
While it was Hardik hitting 15-ball 35 against RPS, it was Krunal”s cameo against SRH that sealed the deal for MI. Both teamed up against KKR to give men in purple a big headache. Krunal was MI”s find of last season when Hardik was struggling. But this season they have delivered in tandem.
2) Return of Slinga
Mumbai Indians badly missed Malinga last season, one reason which was responsible for their early exit. Even in the game against RPS his absence was felt. But since his comeback, Mumbai”s bowling has looked stable. His yorkers, slow balls makes all the difference in death overs.
1) Toss
Toss has been an important factor in both the matches that MI have won. It is almost impossible to defend anything around 180 on a watery Wankhede outfield. Both the times Rohit has won crucial toss. It can be safely said that the match was won when the coin landed in the wrong way than opposition captain would have liked.
– by Atharva Apte