Batting first, Punjab managed only 135-6 off the allotted 20 overs. Did Punjab miss a trick? Yes, they may have. With Mayank Agarwal unfit, it may have been a prudent call to get the Universe Boss [Chris Gayle] to open the innings
Krunal (left) and Hardik Pandya. Pic/PTI
Mumbai Indians (MI) addressed their painful areas that have let them down in chasing modest totals in the United Arab Emirates.
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Their middle and lower-order batsmen, who seemed to be going through a lean patch, came good and that helped the defending champions get back on the winning track by beating Punjab Kings by six wickets at Abu Dhabi.
Another positive for MI was Krunal Pandya, who was targeted by the opposition in earlier games. He bowled a smart line and was able to complete his quota of four overs, claiming 1-24.
Batting first, Punjab managed only 135-6 off the allotted 20 overs. Did Punjab miss a trick? Yes, they may have. With Mayank Agarwal unfit, it may have been a prudent call to get the Universe Boss [Chris Gayle] to open the innings.
When on song, he will destroy and if he can, one must use him for the better part of the 120 balls. Sadly for Punjab, the move to send Mandeep allowed Krunal to complete his quota.
It was only Aiden Markram (42 off 29 balls), who could make an impact and help Punjab reach 135-6.
Jasprit Bumrah as predictable with 2-24, Nathan Coulter-Nile (0-19), Kieron Pollard (2-8) and Krunal put the brakes on Punjab’s batting that never looked like
exploding.
MI, who were desperate to win this contest to stay alive, addressed their shortcomings as Saurabh Tiwary (45), Hardik Pandya (40 not out) and Pollard (15 not out) took the team over the line with an over to spare.
Hardik finding rhythm will support Pollard’s destructive methods. MI have been down, but as history tells us, they have been in this position before.
Could we see a rejuvenated MI in the business end of this IPL? I daresay we could.
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