Mumbai Indians kept their play-off hopes alive with a comfortable 25-run victory over Rajasthan Royals in a one-sided IPl encounter here on Monday.
Batting first, MI scored a stiff 178 for three riding on half-centuries from lendl Simons (62) and Mike Hussey (56). In reply, Royals were never in the chase as they were restricted for 153 for eight. Karun Nair with 48 off 24 balls was the lone ranger for the Royals. Brad Hodge (40) and James Faulkner (31) tried their bit but it was too late by then.
It was a collective effort by the MI bowlers led by senior pro Harbhajan Singh, who outshone others with brilliant figures of two for 13 from four overs. Pragyan Ojha also did his bit with two for 30 from his four overs.
Royals' team management's baffling decision to rest the performing trio of Ajinkya Rahane, Pravin Tambe and Steven Smith backfired as the team lost the necessary momentum going into the match. Roayls with 14 points from 12 games remain third in the table and firmly in the hunt. But back to back losses will certainly affect their chances of finishing in the top two which would have given them an additional game. Mumbai now have eight points from 11 matches.
Brief Scores
Mumbai Indians: 178 for 3 in 20 overs (lendl Simmons 62, Micahel Hussey 56; Ankit Sharma 2/23) beat Rajasthan Royals: 153 for 8 in 20 overs (Karun Nair 48, Brad Hodge 40; Harbhajan Singh 2/13, Pragyan Ojha 2/30) by 25 runs.