Follow UsThe qualification scenario was simple: Mumbai Indians needed a win against Sunrisers Hyderabad at home, and they needed Royal Challengers Bangalore to drop points against Gujarat Titans. With RCB playing the second encounter, all Mumbai could do is win against Sunrisers, and improve their net run-rate.
But it was the worst possible start for Mumbai’s bowling unit, who conceded 140 runs to the Sunrisers’ opening pair, Mayank Agarwal and Vivrant Sharma. Akash Madhwal’s second spell was arguably the difference between the two sides, as Mumbai managed to restrict the visitors to just 200 after 20 overs.
On a belter of a wicket like that in Mumbai, it was always going to be an easy run-chase for the hosts. Rohit Sharma, in the post-match presentation, talked about the qualification probability, stating that they have only themselves to blame if they don’t qualify for the next stage.
“We came with that mindset, we wanted to win and not worry about what we can't control. I haven't spoken to anyone. We've got ourselves to blame if we don't qualify. Last year, we did a big favour for RCB, I hope we get the desired result,” Rohit said in the post-match presentation.
Mumbai started the season in the worst possible manner, losing two on the trot, against Bangalore and Chennai. But from thereon, they managed to pick up momentum, thanks to Suryakumar Yadav’s amazing form. A loss though against Lucknow Super Giants ultimately could end up costing them a place.
“We did a lot of things right. We didn't start well and then won three on the trot. The crucial moments in the game that we lost - there were a lot of moments. The game against Punjab, we could have played well. And the last game against LSG, we had the game in our hands. We can't look too much into it. Sometimes it just doesn't come along.”
The five-time IPL champions can still qualify but for that to happen, they will need help from Bangalore, who need to lose their last encounter against the defending champions, Gujarat.
Cameron Green was named as the Player of the Match, with his ton helping Mumbai to an easy win over Sunrisers. It was the sixth 200+ total that Mumbai have scored this season, and the all-rounder was an influential figure in that run-chase.
"Great stand with Rohit, he's experienced. Having his leadership at the other end helped. The setup has been great, I've been well looked after. No pressure despite the price tag. The intent at the top is important, with Ishan and Rohit above and SKY below me," Green said at the post-match presentation.
The Australian had to thank Mumbai's batting coach, Kieron Pollard for helping him with range-hitting, something that was evidently visible during his 100, where he scored eight fours and as many sixes.
"Pollard has helped with range hitting too. When we had 20 to get, I told SKY to finish it. But with two runs to go, we just trickled over the line."