New Delhi: In the 39th match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 Phase 2, Mumbai Indians had a face-off with Royal Challengers Bangalore. Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai has not had a good start to their UAE leg of the tournament as the defending champions have lost both their matches they have played so far in IPL Phase 2.
While Rohit returned back to his squad after missing first game against Chennai, Hardik Pandya was yet again benched for MI vs RCB match and his fitness remains a matter of great concern for the team.
Mumbai Indians Director of Cricket Operations Zaheer Khan has given a big update on Hardik's fitness and comeback ahead of MI vs RCB match. He said that Pandya has started practicing and the team management will soon take a decision on whether he'll play against RCB or not.
"Well, we have a practice session lined up today and we will see how it goes and then we will take a call. He has started practicing, that is what I can share with you guys, we hope that he will be fit and fine available for the clash against RCB," said Zaheer during a virtual pre-match press conference.
In their previous match, Mumbai bowlers had received a total beatdown from Kolkata batsmen, MI's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah proved to be ineffective and gave away 43 runs off his 4 overs, Trent Boult conceded 23 runs in just 2 overs and could't even complete his spell.
In batting, only captain Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock were in form, while Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan disappointed fans and team with their performance. In order to stay in the race for the playoffs, Mumbai will have to beat Bangalore at any cost!