IPL 2019: Dream XI for Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals
What's the story
The 12th edition of the IPL started on Saturday, as we look forward to another thrilling season.
In match three, former champions Mumbai Indians will take on Delhi Capitals in Mumbai on Sunday.
While it seems like MI are the favorites, DC do have the star power to overpower the home team.
Let's have a look at the fantasy XI for this tie.
Wicket-keeper
Rishabh Pant to take care of action behind the stumps
With four wicket-keeping options available, in the form of Rishabh Pant (DC), Quinton de Kock (MI), Ishan Kishan (MI) and Ankush Bains (DC), Pant is our choice for this role in the Dream XI, owing to his power-hitting skills.
Although Quinton de Kock would have been another good option as well, he does not have the same power-hitting intensity as Delhi's Pant.
Batsmen
Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan form the crux of batting
In the batting department, two of the top batsmen from both the sides dominate the order, as MI skipper Rohit Sharma and DC's Shikhar Dhawan are sure to start as openers.
Following them would be India's young batting sensation, DC's Prithvi Shaw, while rookie Suryakumar Yadav of MI, who can play a good knock, makes the cut at number four.
All-rounders
Axar Patel and Krunal Pandya to govern with all-round skills
Among the all-rounders, we have quite a few options.
However, taking the constraints into consideration, DC's Axar Patel and MI's Krunal Pandya make it into the Fantasy XI.
Although Hardik Pandya would have been a great option, it is yet not sure whether he would play on Sunday, leading to his axe from the Dream XI.
Bowlers
Jasprit Bumrah and Amit Mishra make the cut
As for the bowlers, we again have a balanced, but a spin-heavy side.
DC's Amit Mishra, along with his Nepalese team-mate Sandeep Lamichhane, is set to dominate with spin.
From Mumbai, Mayank Markande and Jasprit Bumrah find their names.
On the other hand, DC's Trent Boult could also have been a good choice, but the conditions might be favorable for spin tomorrow.
Captains
Pant to lead, Bumrah acts as vice-captain
As for the captain, although Rohit and Dhawan are world-class names, we believe that Pant is best for this role, since both the Indian openers have the tendency to perform averagely in the opening game.
As for vice-captain, Bumrah makes the cut owing to his sheer pace bowling skills and consistency in every single match of the tournament to date.