Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals: Whose squad is stronger?
What's the story
Mumbai Indians have been one of the most successful sides over the 11 editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai will be wanting to give a solid account of themselves in IPL 2019. On the other hand, Delhi Capitals have not lived up to the billing as one would have expected. Here, we compare the squads of these two franchises.
Batting
Looking at the batting of both teams
DC's batting will revolve around the Indian stars. The likes of Prithvi Shaw, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are world-class names in T20s. Further, the acquisition of Hanuma Vihari gives them stability in the middle-order. Meanwhile, Mumbai have several top-order batsmen, but their middle-order lacks the zeal. A lot will depend on Rohit, especially in close matches.
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Verdict: DC's batting unit is way ahead of Mumbai
DC's batting unit looks much stronger and has more firepower. DC's top four batsmen can destroy any bowling line-up on their day. Mumbai need their top order to fire consistently as they do not have much quality in the middle.
All-rounders
Looking at the all-round options of both teams
DC have a decent all-round base and it can serve them well. Chris Morris is a seasoned international cricketer, whereas, West Indian duo of Keemo Paul and Sherfane Rutherford are two promising talents. Axar Patel brings composure. Mumbai are well sorted here, with them retaining their regular core players. Pandya brothers Hardik and Krunal are genuine match-winners. Kieron Pollard can play a supporting role.
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Verdict: Mumbai ahead in all-round department
Morris and Axar are DC's main weapons in all-round department and the side will be seeking some strong performances from the two. Paul and Rutherford are options on the bench. MI have a better range of all-rounders who are experienced and can handle any situation.
Bowling
How does the bowling department look like?
Delhi have a good pace attack led by Trent Boult and Kagiso Rabada. Ishant Sharma has a point to prove. Spinner Sandeep Lamichhane is a promising talent, with veteran Amit Mishra giving him support. Mumbai have a dream pace line-up comprising of foreigners. Further, Jasprit Bumrah's death bowling is world class. Spin department is where Mumbai fall short. Mayank Markande is their best bet.
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Verdict: MI better equipped in terms of bowling
DC will heavily rely on Boult and Sandeep. All-rounders Morris and Axar are crucial. But the Indian pacers of Delhi Capitals lack match-winning attributes. Meanwhile, MI's vast pool of pacers gives them an upper hand. Also their all-rounders can decimate the batting line-up of opponents.
Battles
Head-to-head meetings between the two teams
Delhi won both the encounters in IPL 2018 against Mumbai. DC beat MI by seven wickets at the Wankhede after chasing down a stiff target. At the Kotla, the hosts managed to seal victory by 11 runs. In overall head-to-head meetings, there is nothing to separate the two. The sides have faced each other 22 times. Both have won 11 matches each.