Mumbai Indians are back after two successive wins in the Indian Premier League 2024. The five-time champions started the campaign with three back-to-back defeats under new captain Hardik Pandaya, and critics slammed the management for replacing Rohit with Hardik.
However, timely victories against Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have lifted the mood in the camp. Mumbai will next face Chennai Super Kings at the Wankehede Stadium on Sunday, April 14. The two have shared an intense rivalry since the tournament’s first season. MI and CSK have won five titles each so far.
Mumbai’s bowling coach, Lasith Malinga, exposed a harsh reality for the champion side after Arjun Tendulkar bowled two toe-crushing yorkers to hit the single stump during a practice session ahead of the mega clash.
In a video uploaded by the official X handle of the franchise, Arjun can be seen trying to bowl as a right-arm bowler. However, his deliveries went wayward. He then turned to his original left-arm action and hit the stump twice with yorkers.
Malinga, watching the young all-rounder, looked baffled at the outcome. He pointed out a significant issue in the MI squad. He said: “Too many pace bowlers.”
Mumbai Indians spinners haven’t done anything impressive in the 17th season. They have bowled 23 overs and picked three wickets. Piyush Chawla has been their leading spinner, taking two wickets in 10 overs across four games.
On the other hand, the Pacers have taken 25 wickets at an economical rate of 9.87, with Jasprit Bumrah taking 10. He also took a five-wicket haul against RCB.
