Delhi Capitals have finished their Mumbai leg of IPL 2021 with 3 wins in 2 matches at the Wankhede. They will now face the MI challenge at a slower surface in Chepauk where teams batting first have won 5 of 6 matches so far this season.
Teams struggling to find the ideal total
Leaving a few exceptions aside, the teams have mostly struggled to score runs on these pitches. Though MI and RCB have defended low totals at this venue, 150 is not a big total for this ground. The second half of the run-chase is the most tricky period. Teams losing a few quick wickets in this phase tend to lose momentum and subsequently, the match.
There is some reverse swing on offer for the pacers here. The ball comes off the surface slower than the batsman would expect while facing a fast bowler. It is not easy for any player to walk in and start slogging right away.
As a result, the teams will need to find a new approach where one settled batsmen carries them through the majority of the innings. Rotating the strike and manipulating the field is also key to an improved batting performance at this venue.
DC vs MI Match Prediction
Shikhar Dhawan will need to play an anchoring innings here. Moreover, Rishabh Pant and Marcus Stoinis cannot afford to throw their wickets away trying to hit the long ball.
Mumbai will be expecting to put an end to their batting woes. The skipper has called for a better middle-overs performance from his batters.
Between these two sides, MI has a clear edge in the batting lineup with more depth and experience down the order. Whereas, in terms of bowling, both sides have an impressive attack with world-class pace and spin bowling options.
The toss will be crucial and team batting first will have a huge advantage. Mumbai Indians are favourites to win at odds of 1.72 while Delhi Capitals are offered 2.15 odds.