One of the many consequences of being part of a poor run is that every decision made can come under fire. Mumbai Indians, winless after four matches, currently faces criticism for its constant batting-order changes.
Three opening pairs, captain Rohit Sharma dropping to two-down, Harbhajan Singh promoted to four, none of these ploys have worked.
That the bowling, with Lasith Malinga being unusually erratic — has fared no better only adds to the side’s woes.
Royal Challengers Bangalore — with one win and one loss so far — will, no doubt, relish the possibility of capitalising on this instability.
All-rounder Darren Sammy, however, sought to play down the tag of favourites.
“Twenty20 cricket always makes for a level field. Mumbai has some match-winners. Whether it is Mumbai, Delhi Daredevils or Chennai, we have to treat all teams with respect. We have talked about playing bold cricket, and we have to back it up,” the West Indian said on Saturday.
Playing “bold cricket” comes naturally to the RCB top-order. Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli and A.B. de Villiers know no other way, even if Kohli and de Villiers — with best scores of 41 and 46 respectively — have not played spectacular innings yet.
As for Gayle, the home crowd will be more than satisfied to see him in the sort of form from his 56-ball 96 against Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening match.
Sammy would readily join the party if his fellow West Indian does well, but he is equally keen to see bigger contributions from the others in the squad.
“In order to win the IPL, we need to see everyone in the team performing. Everyone’s role is equally important,” he said.
Sammy welcomed the return of Mitchell Starc, who is likely to join the squad on Sunday. The pacer is yet to play this season, a knee injury keeping him out.
“He will join us either for this match or shortly after. When he takes up his role as the leader of our of bowling attack, it will be massive,” said Sammy.
