What Went Right For MI in IPL 2023?
Mumbai Indians became the last team to qualify for IPL 2023 playoffs (IPLT20.com)
Mumbai Indians (MI) endured a torrid campaign in the previous edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), languishing at the bottom of the points table. Expectations were high for the franchise in the current season, and they lived up to the challenge by securing a spot in the playoffs of IPL 2023 on the final day of the league stage.
Their emphatic eight-wicket victory over SunRisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai propelled them to a tally of 16 points. MI's fortunes further relied on the outcome of the match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT), and fate smiled upon the defending champions as GT emerged victorious against the Faf du Plessis-led side. Remarkably, this marks the 10th occasion out of 16 seasons that the illustrious five-time champions have successfully qualified for the playoffs.
Although the IPL 2023 campaign commenced on a rocky note for the Mumbai Indians, with defeats in four of their first seven fixtures, doubts began to cast shadows upon their aspirations. However, showcasing remarkable resilience, they mounted a stunning resurgence during the latter stages of the tournament. Winning the five out of their subsequent seven encounters, they sealed their spot in the top four. Now, with their sights set on the Eliminator against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Rohit Sharma and his men prepare themselves for yet another thrilling battle.
As MI gears up to take on LSG on Wednesday, let’s take a look at what has gone right for the Men in Blue & Gold in IPL 2023.
The Splendid Surya Show
Suryakumar Yadav encountered a series of low scores that significantly contributed to Mumbai Indians' setbacks in the initial matches. However, the pivotal moment arrived when the batter regained his formidable touch, subsequently rekindling the winning momentum for the Mumbai-based franchise. This resurgence highlights the undeniable importance of the 32-year-old within the MI batting line-up.
Suryakumar Yadav has been in terrific form in IPL 2023 (IPLT20.com)
The charismatic batter has emerged as the premier run-scorer for the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2023, amassing 511 runs across 14 matches. With a staggering strike rate of 185.14, Surya's performances have been nothing short of extraordinary as he has crafted four half-centuries and a sublime century. His exceptional contributions have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in elevating the Mumbai Indians to new heights throughout the ongoing season.
Middle-Order Marvels
Mumbai Indians boast a formidable middle-order lineup comprising the dynamic talents of Cameron Green, Nehal Wadhera, Tilak Varma, and Tim David, all of whom have been vital in securing pivotal wins during critical moments. This power-packed ensemble of batsmen has proven to be instrumental in propelling the Mumbai Indians towards victories. Throughout the season, their exploits have been awe-inspiring, particularly in instances where they successfully chased scores in excess of 200.
Cameron Green & Tim David against LSG (IPLT20.com)
The towering presence of Green has been a revelation, amassing a staggering 381 runs at an impressive strike rate of 159.41. His commanding performances have instilled fear in the hearts of opposition bowlers, while Nehal Wadhera (214), Tilak Varma (274), and Tim David (216) have also etched their names on the scorecards with crucial contributions of their own. Collectively, this middle-order brigade has displayed their ability to turn the tides in their team's favor. As the Mumbai Indians brace themselves for a monumental showdown LSG, they will once again place their trust in the mettle of these middle-order stalwarts.
Piyush Chawla’s Resurgence
Piyush Chawla, despite reaching the age of 34, has reshaped his role and rejuvenated his game in IPL 2023. The veteran spinner has masterfully showcased his skill and finesse and has emerged among top-wicket takers in the competition, grabbing of 20 wickets at a remarkable average of 21.10 and a commendable economy rate of 7.81 which has helped Mumbai immensely in their quest to qualify for the playoffs.
Piyush Chawla is MI's leading wicket-taker in IPL 2023 (IPLT20.com)
As the high-stakes encounter against LSG looms on the horizon, the leg-spinner finds himself in a pivotal role, serving as the linchpin that could shape Mumbai Indians' destiny. The backdrop of the match is set in Chennai, where the playing surface favours spin-bowling. Chawla's performance with the ball holds the potential to sway the tide of the game, with every delivery carrying the weight of Mumbai Indians' way to the final.
Unheralded Heroes: The Silent Impact of Uncapped Bowlers
Amidst the prominence of established stars like Jofra Archer, Jason Behrendorff, and Chris Jordan, a group of unsung heroes comprising Akash Madhwal, Arshad Khan, Kumar Kartikeya, and Arjun Tendulkar have quietly made their mark. These uncapped players have played a significant role in providing crucial breakthroughs for the Mumbai Indians, even as the spotlight often eludes them. While the international bowlers command attention, it is the silent and effective contributions of these young talents that have bolstered the team's success.
Akash Madhwal has impressed with his death bowling (IPLT20.com)
Akash Madhwal has impressively claimed eight wickets in six games whereas Arshad Khan has nagged five wickets in as many matches. Kartikeya and Tendulkar have also made notable contributions to the bowling attack, with the former accounting for five scalps and the latter securing three. Based on their recent form, it is likely that Madhwal and Kartikeya will feature in the MI's playing XI against LSG. The two will aim to maintain their form and make pivotal contributions, guiding the Mumbai Indians to a berth in Qualifier 2.