IPL 2018: Probable playing XI for Mumbai Indians
What's the story
Mumbai Indians are once again one of the favourites to win the 2018 Indian Premier League title. The Rohit Sharma-led side have already won a record three trophies and this time as well they bank on the core players to deliver the goods. They open the campaign on April 7 against Chennai Super Kings. Here we analyze the probable starting XI for the franchise.
Firepower atop
Lewis, Rohit to open for Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians are likely to open the batting with the duo of Evin Lewis and skipper Rohit Sharma. Lewis has been a prominent force in limited overs format and was excellent during the ICC World Cup Qualifiers. The 26-year-old will be given the license to attack. Rohit will look to provide the base and bat long. He has all the attributes to provide solidity.
Proteas force
JP Duminy to lead middle-order batting
Former India U-19 skipper Ishan Kishan will come out at number 3 besides being the wicket-keeper. He is richly talented and Rohit has a lot of faith in him. Veteran southpaw JP Duminy will lead the middle-order. At number 4 he is a perfect choice to hold the fort. Former KKR batsman Suryakumar Yadav will come next. He is aggressive and a busy player.
Danger aplenty
All-rounders fill up the lower middle-order
At number 6, the big Kieron Pollard is set to step in. One of the most feared hitters and a genuine match-winner, Pollard can finish games. India's talented Hardik Pandya will follow suit. He is a class act in this position and is as dangerous as Pollard. Hardik's brother Krunal is handy with the bat and at number 8 he adds depth and steel.
Bowling attack
Chahar, Cummins and Bumrah fill up remaining slots
The youthfulness of 18-year-old Rahul Chahar will be key. He performed well in the U-19 tournaments and this is the big stage he would be raring to get under his belt. Aussie Pat Cummins comes in to the side on back of consistent performances. He has been a revelation. Unorthodox Jasprit Bumrah is the star of the bowling-unit. One knows his capabilities well.