High on confidence after decimating a high-profile RCB, an upbeat Gujarat lions will be aiming to lift their game a notch higher when they face title contenders Mumbai Indians in an IPl encounter, here on Saturday.
The lions will be hoping that their skipper Suresh Raina is fully fit. The India international will not like to miss out a match at this crucial juncture, having already scored 309 runs in the tournament so far.
One of the more balanced outfits with all bases covered, Mumbai's primary aim will be to get two more wins as quickly as possibly which will all but ensure a smooth passage into the Play-Offs.
lions on the other hand need to win five out of their next six games.
James Faulkner and Andrew Tye with their variations in bowling along with two T20 dashers like Brendon McCullum and Aaron Finch at the top of the order is proving to be helpful for the lions. They have a new-found talent in Basil Thampi, who can bowl yorkers at will. Nathu Singh has given a glimpse of his talent. The firework from Dinesh Karthik in the middle-order keeps them in good stead.
But in terms of pure talent, Mumbai Indians are way ahead with Jos Buttler at the top followed by explosive players like skipper Rohit Sharma, who is slowly coming into his own and Kieron Pollard - an undoubted match winner on his day. The Pandya brothers — Krunal and Hardik are also vital component with both the Mitchells — Johnson and McClenaghan intimidating the batsmen with pace and swing. Jasprit Bumrah's presence means that lasith Malinga's off-form has not been a deterrent. last but not the least is Harbhajan Singh, who has now bowled 26 overs in seven matches with an astounding economy rate of 5.88 and the batsmen haven’t been able to attack him.