MI vs KKR: Match preview, head-to-head records and pitch report
Mumbai Indians take on Kolkata Knight Riders in match number 56 of the ongoing 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). MI will look to play a strong brand of cricket at home. They have already made it to the play-offs. Meanwhile, KKR are in a must-win scenario. Here is the detailed match preview.
Head-to-head meetings between the two sides
These two teams have faced each other 24 times in the past. MI have won a staggering 18 games, while KKR pocketed a total of six wins. Earlier this season, KKR won the encounter at the Eden Gardens.
MI would want a complete performance
MI need a strong start and cannot just rely on a few big names. Their batsmen have been dependent heavily on Quinton de Kock upfront and the heroics of Hardik Pandya in the lower middle order. So KKR will try to target the rest. On the bowling front, MI know the conditions well and will rely on their strong set of pacers.
KKR need to all out in this must-win encounter
After six losses on the trot, KKR have managed to stitch two successive wins and stay alive. Their batting has clicked in the last two games and the side will hope there is a collective approach on offer. Sandeep Warrier has done an able job since coming on. Sunil Narine and Harry Gurney need to come strong. But KKR need wickets to stop MI.
MI vs KKR: Here are the key players
Hardik Pandya is crucial for MI's chances to finish in the top two. He has been supreme with the bat after amassing 380 runs. The 26-year-old has also picked up 12 scalps. Jasprit Bumrah will also look to influence MI. For KKR, their openers Chris Lynn and Shubman Gill will need to back themselves and get another strong start. Russell's heroics will be influential.
Pitch report, timing and TV listing
The pitch at the Wankhede will support batting. Anything in excess of 180 will be a decent total. The bowlers will need to stick to their plans and try to extract the maximum. The match is scheduled for 8:00 PM start IST. One can watch the match live on the Star Sports Network and can stream the same on Hotstar app.
