Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 69th Match
To secure a spot in the playoffs of IPL 2023, the Mumbai Indians (MI) face a crucial challenge at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on May 21. Not only must they defeat the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), but they also need to improve their net run rate, as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are closely trailing them in the standings. MI will rely on the excellent form of players like Suryakumar Yadav and Nehal Wadhera, who have been performing exceptionally well. However, their bowling remains a concern that needs to be addressed.
On the other hand, the Sunrisers Hyderabad have had a disappointing season, currently languishing at the bottom of the IPL points table. Led by Aiden Markram, they aim to end the season on a positive note. The decision to exclude Umran Malik from the playing XI has generated significant buzz on social media. It will be intriguing to see whether the management includes him in the final league game or opts to keep him on the sidelines.
The pitch at Wankhede Stadium is perfectly suited for batsmen to dominate the game. Chasing targets is relatively easier here, so the team that wins the toss would likely choose to bowl first. A score of 190 or above would be considered a good total on this wicket.
Key Performers for MI vs SRH:
Outstanding Batsman:
Heinrich Klaasen:
South African international Heinrich Klaasen has been in exceptional form throughout the season. He recently scored a brilliant century against RCB and has accumulated 430 runs in 11 matches. Currently occupying the seventh spot in the IPL Orange Cap race, Klaasen’s style of play suits the Wankhede pitch, making him a player to watch out for.
Top Bowler:
Piyush Chawla:
Experienced spinner Piyush Chawla has been in remarkable form this season. With 20 wickets in 13 matches, he poses a significant threat to SRH. Chawla’s skills could prove to be highly dangerous for the opposition on Sunday.
Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Gujarat Titans, 70th Match
The final league match of IPL 2023 between the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and the Gujarat Titans (GT) promises to be an exciting showdown. After a 25-day hiatus, IPL will finally return to Bengaluru’s M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, where RCB must give their all and secure a victory to secure a place in the IPL playoffs.
Currently positioned fourth on the IPL points table, RCB’s path to the playoffs becomes complicated if they fail to win against the Faf du Plessis-led GT. Notably, both Faf and Virat Kohli are in tremendous form, while Mohammed Siraj has been exceptional with the ball.
As for the defending champions, Shubman Gill showcased his brilliance with a magnificent century in the last match and has been in excellent form throughout the season. Additionally, Rashid Khan and Mohammed Shami have delivered exceptional performances with the ball, adding to the team’s positive momentum. However, ahead of the Qualifier 1, the team hopes for other players to regain their form as well.
The pitch at Chinnaswamy Stadium is known to favor batsmen, where no target is truly safe. Hence, the team batting first should aim to score around 210-220 runs. Opting to bowl first would be ideal, considering the relatively easier nature of chasing on this ground.
RCB vs GT Probable Key Performers:
Outstanding Batsman:
Faf du Plessis:
South African international Faf du Plessis has been in exceptional form this season. With 702 runs in 13 matches, he currently holds the IPL Orange Cap. His consistent performances make him a crucial player for the team as they look forward to him maintaining his impressive form.
Top Bowler:
Rashid Khan:
Despite the batsmen’s dominance at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Afghan spinner Rashid Khan possesses the ability to cause significant damage during the middle overs. With 23 wickets in 13 matches, the 24-year-old currently sits in second place in the IPL Purple Cap race.
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