The winless Mumbai Indians will be playing to save face as they take on the Rajasthan Royals in a match that is seemingly inconsequential as far as the bigger picture is concerned. With playoffs not in the picture for Mumbai, and the Royals all but certain to make the playoffs, this match is shaping up to be a dead rubber for all intents and purposes.
Mumbai, though, may look to play party-poopers in their remaining matches to put a dent in the progress of the teams who will be fighting for the playoff spots, starting with the Royals. With the Royals already inflicting defeat over Mumbai in the earlier fixture, it remains to be seen what the Mumbai Indians will do to hopefully get the long-elusive first win of the season.
Mumbai Indians
Well, the less said about the side the better. Played 8, lost 8. This is a huge anomaly for a side so used to competing for titles and always finishing on the higher end of the table. This season has been a catastrophe of biblical proportions, with most of the core failing to perform, leading to doubts on the amount of investment that has been put on such players, with particular scrutiny on Ishan Kishan, whose form has absolutely deserted him, and he looks a shadow of his flamboyant self.
There have been a few bright spots, but overall, it has been a very miserable campaign for the most successful team in the IPL. They can hope to spoil the party of the teams, and test their bench strength by giving some new players a chance.
Rajasthan Royals
The Royals have been cantering along their merry way. They have been playing brilliant cricket. The team has been performing as a unit and always having that extra gear as and when the situation requires. They did have a rare off night the other day, where their batting didn’t really click like they normally do, but up-stepped Riyan Parag. The Assam youngster, who was under pressure to perform, played a great hand, scoring a 50 and taking 4 catches to ice the game for the Royals. The Royals will be aware that they do not need a lot to do as far as playoff qualification is concerned, but will be wary of complacency and will play the same way that they have played to date.
RR Vs MI Live: Head-to-Head
Mumbai just about holds the edge in the head-to-head between the two sides, winning 13 out of the 256 b between the two sides, while the Royals have won 12 with 1 no result. In this tournament, the Royals held the Mumbai Indians rather comfortably, winning by 23 runs courtesy of a stunning Ji’s Buttler century.
RR Vs MI Live: Prediction
This is a very straightforward prediction. Mumbai has nothing to play for but pride, whereas the Royals will be wanting to make the playoffs quickly. The Royals are clear favourites in this game.
Date and Time
30th April 2022 (Saturday) at 7:30 pm.
Venue
DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.
This game surely favours the team from Rajasthan, though anything can happen in cricket. Let’s wait and watch!!
