 Tendulkar's presence gives Mumbai Indians the edge
13th May 2008 19:01 IST
Agencies
The Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings, on the other hand, started in spectacular fashion before stumbling a bit only to regain poise with a fine 18-run victory over Punjab on May 10.
Both the teams seem to have settled down after an uncertain period, initially for Mumbai and after the departure of Australians Matthew Hayden and Michael Hussey for Chennai, and tomorrow's clash under lights promises plenty of fire-works for the crowd.
Comeback man Lakshmipathy Balaji performed brilliantly with a five-wicket haul that included the IPL's first hat-trick, and his duel with two of the world's most attacking batsmen - Tendulkar and Sri Lankan great Sanath Jayasuriya - would be worth the wait.
Veteran Jayasuriya, the Marauder from Matara, has not really exploded in full might, but only given glimpses of what could happen if he blooms fully and hopefully for the hosts it will happen in Tendulkar's company.
Mumbai Indians' batting, overall, has not succeeded to an extent it was expected to, indicated clearly by the fact that Robin Uthappa has been their leading run-getter with 211 runs in seven ties, but without a half century to his credit.
Shaun Pollock, who led the side admirably in Tendulkar's absence, would once again lead the attack but to the good tidings of the team Ashish Nehra seems to have struck form and also fetched the man of the match award in the last tie against Rajasthan Royals.
Mumbai's spin bowling still looks a bit thin after the exit of Harbhajan and Chennai would look to take advantage of this factor when they bat. |
