New Delhi: Defending champions Mumbai Indians are all set to take on Kolkata Knight Riders on Thursday in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 Phase 2 at the iconic Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
Heavyweights Mumbai faced a humiliating defeat in the UAE leg opener against Chennai Super Kings, while underdogs Kolkata totally dominated Royal Challengers Bangalore in their first match by getting a 9-wicket win. Fans are all in for a tough competition tonight as both teams will aim to better their position in IPL 2021 Points Table and make it comfortably to the playoffs.
If reports are to be believed, Rohit Sharma is now match-hit and certainly will play today's match against Kolkata. Ahead of the match, Mumbai Indians skipper said one cannot give much importance to old records in T20 cricket because anything can happen in this format at any time.
Kieron Pollard was asked to lead Mumbai against CSK in Rohit's absence. A Rohit-less Mumbai was clearly struggling in the match as they made many mistakes in field and bowling changes. Rohit's return will definitely give strength to Mumbai Indians. Hardik Pandya's participation in today's game is not confirmed yet. Ahead of today's game, Rohit said, "To be honest, I do not believe in old records because T20 is such a game, in which it matters how which team played that day. This is a game where you have to be your best on match day."
Rohit Sharma further said, "They (KKR) are a good opposition team and they are playing good cricket. After defeating RCB in their last match, KKR will come into this match with confidence. So the match against them is not going to be easy for us. " Mumbai Indians have won 22 matches against KKR, while Kolkata have only six wins against Mumbai. "We know that we have a great record against this team, but it is important that we play well and win," he added.