As we step into the thrilling second half of the tournament, all eyes are on the clash between the table-toppers, the Rajasthan Royals, and the formidable Mumbai Indians, set to unfold tonight at the illustrious Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
Jasprit Bumrah's impeccable performance and Suryakumar Yadav’s outstanding innings ensured Mumbai Indians secured their fourth victory in their last four outings, gaining the much-needed momentum. Having triumphed in three out of their last four matches, Mumbai is now set to face the team that previously outplayed them at their home ground, Wankhede Stadium, where Trent Boult and Nandre Burger wreaked havoc on their batting lineup. However, Mumbai's batting lineup appears considerably stronger, with their star batsman Surya back in phenomenal form, having scored two fifties (He missed the first match against RR). Moreover, Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan have been in exceptional form too. Tilak Varma has also played some crucial innings, adding depth to their batting prowess. Although Hardik Pandya and Tim David are yet to make their mark, their potential is undeniable.
While Jasprit Bumrah has delivered as expected, the other bowlers have fallen short. It has been a solo show, with Bumrah single-handedly clinching two games for Mumbai Indians. Although Gelard Coetzee has taken wickets, it has come at a hefty price. Given their bowling struggles, Mumbai might consider replacing Romario Shepherd with Nuwan Thushara, who possesses the ability to bowl with a slingy action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga. Mumbai will be eager to maintain their winning streak and secure the vital two points.
Probable XI:
Mumbai Indians: Ishan Kishan (WK), Rohit Sharma, Surya Kumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (C), Tim David, Mohammad Nabi, Gerald Coetzee, Shreyas Gopal, Jasprit Bumrah, Nuwan Tushara.
Impact Players: Akash Madhwal, Romario Shepherd.
Rajasthan Royals enter this match on the back of a remarkable victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders, thanks to Jos Buttler's heroic performance. The batsman, who initially struggled in the first couple of games, now boasts two centuries to his name. Rajasthan leads the pack for a reason. With the exception of Yashasvi Jaiswal, all their batters have been in top form. Riyan Parag is currently the third-highest scorer in this edition, amassing 318 runs at an impressive average of 63.60. Their skipper, Sanju Samson, is also in terrific form, having amassed 276 runs at an average of 55.20, while Jos Buttler has accumulated 250 runs at an average of 62.50. The batters have been sensational, and their finisher, Shimron Hetmyer, played a pivotal role in securing an important win against PBKS to earn two valuable points. The inclusion of power hitter Rovman Powell will further bolster their batting lineup, adding depth and the ability to take on any bowler in the world.
In the bowling department, Yuzvendra Chahal, the purple cap holder last week, was surpassed by his international teammate Jasprit Bumrah. Chahal has been bowling as effectively as he did in the previous season. Selectors have a close eye on him as the World Cup is drawing nearer. His bowling partner, R Ashwin, hasn't quite hit the mark though. On the flip side, Trent Boult and Avesh Khan have been providing excellent support. Sandeep Sharma has been recovering well, he might be featured in this game.
Rajasthan will be looking to continue their dominance over Mumbai, as they have done in the past here at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.
Probable XI:
Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson (c & wk), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Yuzvendra Chahal.
Impact Players: Rovman Powell, Keshav Maharaj.
Weather and Pitch Report: Tonight, the temperature in Jaipur will be approximately 28 degrees Celsius, but it will feel more like 25 degrees Celsius. Humidity will be around 26%, and there is no chance of rain.
Considering the dew factor, the team winning the toss is likely to opt to bowl first. Defending a total below 200 will be challenging, so the team chasing the total is expected to have the advantage. A batting first total of 175-185 is anticipated.
Interesting Stats and Facts:
- Sanju Samson is just 7 sixes away from completing 200 IPL sixes.
- Jos Buttler is 27 runs away from completing 3500 IPL runs.
- Yuzvendra Chahal is just 1 wicket away from completing 200 IPL wickets.
- Tilak Varma (948) needs 52 runs to reach 1000 runs in IPL.
- Shimron Hetmyer (3983) needs 17 runs to reach the 4000-run landmark in the T20s.
Match Details:
Time: 7.30 PM (IST)
Venue: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur.
Live Broadcast: Star Sports Network
Live Streaming: Jio Cinema app
Dream XI:
