IPL 2019: Can Delhi Capitals overcome Mumbai Indians?
As the 12th edition of the IPL is already underway, we move into match three of the tournament, where former champions Mumbai Indians take on Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. Till date, Delhi haven't won even a single trophy and would look to kick-start their 2019 campaign on a high note. But, can they overcome Mumbai? Here's our preview.
MI eye record fourth title, look to extract home advantage
MI, which last won the IPL back in 2017, would be aiming for another title-winning performance this term, as they open the season against DC. They would be led by regular skipper Rohit Sharma. MI have a star-studded side, with some quality talent in their ranks. Further, their all-round department consists of world-class names including Pandya brothers, which might help them come on top.
DC eye fresh start with a new identity
As for DC, they have undergone a name change from Delhi Daredevils. However, can this new identity help them in securing their first-ever IPL title is a million-dollar question. Being led by Shreyas Iyer, they have a batting heavy side including players like Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant and Prithvi Shaw. It would be interesting to see if they can tame MI's bowlers at Wankhede.
Jasprit Bumrah's workload a concern
Jasprit Bumrah is, undoubtedly, MI's leading pacer. However, keeping in mind the upcoming World Cup, his workload would be a matter of concern. Nonetheless, he is to get support from all-rounder Kieron Pollard. MI's weakness is their middle-order as Rohit is set to open the innings. Hence, the focus would be on Yuvraj Singh, whose form has been questionable over the past few seasons.
Dhawan in focus for DC, ahead of World Cup
As for DC, the main focus would be on Shikhar Dhawan, who would be eager to get runs before the World Cup. Further, the onus would be on Iyer and Pant, who would look to provide an edge to the side, courtesy their exquisite batting. Prithvi Shaw is likely to give stability atop, while they have a couple of genuine pacers in their arsenal.
An intense head-to-head rivalry
Considering their head-to-head records, it has been in an intense rivalry so far. Both the sides have played 22 matches to date, with each winning 11 games. Nonetheless, MI hold the edge while playing in Mumbai, as they have won seven of the nine matches at home, while five of those victories have come at Wankhede. We predict MI to come on top tonight.
Predicted playing XI and Dream XI
Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma (c), Quinton de Kock, Suryakumar Yadav, Yuvraj Singh, Krunal Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, Ben Cutting, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah, Mitchell McClenaghan. Delhi Capitals: Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer (c), Rishabh Pant, Colin Ingram, Hanuma Vihari, Axar Patel, Sandeep Lamichhane, Amit Mishra, Trent Boult, Kagiso Rabada. Dream XI: Pant, Dhawan, Shaw, Rohit, Suryakumar, Axar, Krunal, Mishra, Lamichhane, Markande, Bumrah.
