Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders Players Battles Preview:
It has been an IPL to forget for both Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders. Both the teams have had contrasting runs so far. MI remained winless for the first eight games. Post breaking the rut, MI notched up another win. Let us dive into MI vs KKR Key Players Battles in detail in the above article.
KKR on the other hand started handsomely winning 3 out of the first 4 games. But they then lost 6 of their next 7 games. It also included a five-match streak of losses. The players from both sides will want to put a last-ditch effort to outdo each other.
We look at the MI vs KKR Key Players Battles in this match:
#1 Rohit Sharma vs Umesh Yadav
The Mumbai Indians skipper, Rohit Sharma, finally showed some form in the game against Gujarat Titans. His quick-fire forty at the start of the innings paved the way for MI to post a sizeable total. Sharma though will be eager to play a more impactful knock. He will want to bat deep into the innings. Sharma has a fine record against KKR. He will be up against Umesh Yadav in this game. KKR missed Yadav’s services badly in the game against LSG. Yadav’s early seam movement will test Sharma. It will be an intriguing contest.
#2 Suryakumar Yadav vs Sunil Narine
If there is one player who has kept the KKR flag flying high it has been Sunil Narine. The mystery spinner has been magnificent for KKR. He has done his best to keep the batsmen in check. Suryakumar Yadav, MI’s designated spin attacker will face a tough challenge against Narine. The KKR spinner has great numbers against most Mumbai batsmen. Surya needs to be at his absolute best to tackle the Narine challenge.
#3 Tim David vs Andre Russell
Mumbai Indians made a big mistake by not giving Tim David enough games. The powerful finisher has already showcased his worth in both the games where MI has won. David’s counterattacking finishes have helped MI seal two close games. He will be up against KKR’s premier allrounder, Andre Russell. Russell has been quietly effective in the death overs for KKR. David will be eager to make a big statement against one of the best in the game.
#4 Shreyas Iyer vs Daniel Sams
KKR appointed Shreyas Iyer as captain right after picking him up in the mega auctions. He was their biggest hope heading into this season. Iyer came into the tournament playing the best cricket of his life. His Midas touch was there for everyone to see in the first four games. But it has been pretty much downhill for both Iyer and KKR. He is yet to stamp his authority as captain.
Iyer will be keen to play a captain’s knock against Mumbai. He will be tested against the left-arm angle of Daniel Sams. The Australian bowler had a terrific outing against Gujarat. He will be high on confidence while bowling to Iyer. It will be an engrossing contest.
