Defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) showed no signs of slowing down, as they beat fellow former champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) convincingly. In Match 32 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), KKR succumbed to an eight-wicket defeat, as MI rise to the top spot again. In the same light, let us analyse the top talking points from the game.
undefined
Dinesh Karthik's trouble with leg-spin continues: Karthik might have relieved himself of the captaincy. However, there was no improvement in his batting, as his weakness against the leg-spin continued to take a toll on him. It was the fourth instance of the season, where he fell prey to a leg-spinner, as he really needs to work upon it now.
undefined
Rahul Chahar's effectiveness and luck: Speaking of leg-spinners, it was Chahar who gave a tough time to not just Karthik, but ace opener Shubman Gill as well. Finishing with figures of 218, he was really important for MI in this tie and would continue to play a huge role in the upcoming games.
undefined
Should Pat Cummins transform himself into an all-rounder? On a day when most of the KKR batsmen failed, it was a bowler who shined, as pacer Pat Cummins played an impressive knock of a 36-ball 53. He has also played some quickfire knocks in the past couple of matches this season. With a strike-rate of 152 in the tournament, it won't be a bad idea if he bats up the order, or even transforms himself into an all-rounder, at least in the IPL.
undefined
KKR could use Varun Chakravarthy in the powerplay: Although credit must be given to the MI openers, for surviving the powerplay, KKR could have possibly missed the trick by not using leg-spinner Varun Chakravarthy during the phase. Having been their most economical bowler this season, Morgan should have used him early to pile pressure on MI, especially while defending a low total.
undefined
Rohit Sharma playing more responsibly: Rohit might have been doing good as a captain, but he is yet to deliver with the bat, especially in terms of a big knock. Nonetheless, he showed some smartness last night, as he played with more responsibility. While he played a composed innings of 35, he ensured to rotate the strike and allow Quinton de Kock to play the main knock.
undefined
Match summary: Electing to bat, KKR were off to a shaky start, losing their opening two wickets during the PP. Nonetheless, it was a late onslaught of unbeaten 39 and 53 from Morgan and Pat Cummins, respectively, that allowed KKR to post a below-par total of 1485, while Chahar claimed 218. In reply, MI openers were off to a flier, as Rohit Sharma (32) and Quinton de Kock's (78*) allowed MI to register an easy eight-wicket win.
undefined