Mumbai Indians are known for their slow starts in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dating back to 2012, they haven’t managed to win their first match of the season. In 2022, it took them nine games to register their first victory, and last year, they suffered three consecutive losses before finally winning. This trend seems to go against the common belief that a good beginning is crucial.
The five-time IPL champions are definitely motivated to change this pattern. However, it might be particularly difficult this year as their first two matches are away from home.
Their season opener is against Chennai Super Kings, also five-time champions, who are formidable at their home ground. The slow pitches at Chepauk, CSK’s home stadium, are known to favor their spin bowlers, making it tough for visiting teams. Next, Mumbai will play against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, where they were defeated last season by Shubman Gill’s team at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Adding to their difficulties is the likely absence of their key bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, who is still awaiting clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Furthermore, captain Hardik Pandya will also miss the first game due to a slow over-rate penalty from the previous season.
Despite these challenges, the Mumbai Indians management, led by head coach Mahela Jayawardene and captain Pandya, are focused on breaking this opening game jinx. The coach mentioned that they are aware of their poor record in first games since 2012 and that they, along with Suryakumar Yadav, who will potentially lead in Pandya’s absence, see it as a significant challenge to overcome as they look forward to the season starting on March 22.
Jayawardene emphasized that they have a core group of experienced players who understand the team’s culture and winning strategies. He also highlighted the return of Trent Boult, who was important to their success in 2020. For this season, the focus is on integrating the team, ensuring good teamwork, understanding their strengths, and achieving a positive start. Reflecting on the challenges of the previous season and the changes from the auction, he noted that they have a fresh start to shape their season.
The coach has accepted Bumrah’s absence for now, as the team awaits updates from the NCA on his progress. While Bumrah’s absence is a significant setback, Jayawardene views it as an opportunity for other players to step up and prove themselves. He believes it allows them to explore different strategies and see what works best.
Pandya, while acknowledging the impact of Bumrah’s absence, expressed enthusiasm about Boult’s return. He emphasized the importance of experience in their bowling attack, especially at the Wankhede Stadium, which can be challenging for bowlers. He highlighted the experience of players like Boult, Mitchell Santner, and Deepak Chahar, along with Bumrah and himself, as crucial, alongside the energy of younger players.
Both Pandya and Jayawardene dismissed concerns about Suryakumar Yadav’s recent form, despite his low scores in recent T20Is against England. Pandya stated he’s not worried, citing Suryakumar’s consistent past performances for India and Mumbai Indians and his positive energy within the team.
Jayawardene echoed this sentiment, stating they are not concerned about Suryakumar. He mentioned Suryakumar’s good performance in practice games and views his occasional failures as normal. He wants Suryakumar to enjoy his batting and perform for the team.
