IPL 2021: Ishan Kishan opening with Rohit Sharma could reduce MI’s blues

Ishan Kishan

When there is a run-famine within a team, the opposition will target that weakness.

Mumbai Indians have struggled with the lower middle-order in all their four games. Their wins have been due to team work, strong bowling and excellence in the field. Time has come for them to smell the coffee and address an area of weakness that is hampering their authoritative quality.

A total of 137 in 20 overs against Delhi Capitals on Tuesday (out of which Rohit Sharma contributed 44) said it all.

It may not be a bad idea to push Ishan Kishan to open with Rohit just to break the lack in momentum.

The contribution from the MI middle order will give their bowling attack more runs to defend, something that hasn't happened in four games.

Chinks are observed vigilantly and capitalised upon by opposition teams. MI has had this chink for four games and it may be a good time to address it before it's too late.

Mishra uses his experience

Amit Mishra may not be a spring chicken. He is 38 years young but his skill and experience were visible. Figures of 4-24 off four overs is an indication that picking up wickets is a habit for him and DC used him astutely against some of the best players of spin in the MI camp.

His wicket, off a googly that beat the dangerous Pollard was a classic leg-spinner's dismissal. Often, these exhibitions of sheer craft are indicative of the fact that there is space on the shelf for experience and an opportunity to win a battle with your craft and not power. Thank you, Mishra for changing the narrative of T20 cricket.

When MI made 137, one expected them to battle hard and make DC scrap for each run. DC had Shikhar Dhawan and Steven Smith in their ranks and they were well aware of what it takes to earn a win from a champion side.

Dhawan, Smith shine

Respecting conditions and using their wealth of experience, Dhawan with an uncharacteristic workmanlike 45 and Smith with 33, saw them home with five balls to spare.

MI will know their pain areas, DC will be relieved that they finally could get a win over the five-time champions. In these times, when life is fickle and uncertain, a veteran leg-spinner can take wickets to make you smile and take your mind off the pain around us. Oh, those little joys that cricket provides.