IPL 2020: Mumbai Indians have ‘upper hand’ against Chennai Super Kings, says Gautam Gambhir

Bengaluru: Former India batsman Gautam Gambhir feels defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have the upper hand in their IPL 2020 opening clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on September 19.

In a repeat of last year’s final, the Rohit Sharma-led MI and CSK, captained by MS Dhoni, will face off to open IPL 2020 in Abu Dhabi.

Over the years, MI and CSK have met on many occasions and in the IPL 2019 final, the ‘men in blue’ won the title by just 1 run.

Talking about this year’s clash between the two, Gambhir opined that CSK will miss Suresh Raina, who opted out of the tournament due to personal reasons.

“I am very excited to see how Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah will be bowling together with the new ball. Because Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult are world-class bowlers and both of them are wicket-taking options in T20 cricket. A left-arm seamer who brings the ball in for right-handers and Jasprit Bumrah who is unorthodox,” Gambhir said on Star Sports’ ‘Cricket Connected’ show.

“It will be a huge challenge for Chennai Super Kings as they don’t have Suresh Raina at No.3, plus Shane Watson does not play much international cricket and has not played cricket for a long time, so how he plays against Bumrah and Trent Boult. We will also have to see with whom he would be opening the batting,” he added.

“I feel the Mumbai Indians have the upper hand if you see the balance and depth of the squad. They have also added Trent Boult to their squad, who will give them a very good option,” Gambhir said.