Mumbai Indians (MI) have found themselves in a pickle after three straight losses in the second phase of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. The last of the three losses hurt them badly. Not only did they lose two valuable points but their net run rate took a massive slump dropping them to seventh position on the points table.
However, this is not the first time MI have created a tough situation for themselves. In fact, they have been known for comebacks like these which often results in getting their hands on the trophy.
In 2014, Rohit Sharma’s men found themselves in a similar position. They had just three wins in the bag out of the 10 matches and the net run rate was not great either. Seven years later, MI find themselves struggling again but in a slightly better position. From 10 games, they have four wins and from now on they need to win every match to ensure their place in the playoffs without being dependent on results of other games.
A comeback for ages
MI needed to win all of their remaining games. They won against Rajasthan Royals, Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) and Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals). In the last league match, a must win encounter, they were up against Royals once again. Not only they needed a win but a big one and conceding 189 runs in the first innings to make it an uphill battle for them.
MI needed a hero to ace the herculean task of chasing down a target of 190 from 14.3 overs to qualify for the playoffs and they found one in Kiwi all-rounder Corey Anderson. Coming to bat at no.3, Anderson controlled the pace of the game. He had help from other batters including Michael Hussey, Ambati Rayudu, contributing to the run chase with cameos to level the scores.
MI needed a six off the last ball to better their net run rate and the cool-headed Aditya Tare flicked it for maximum like he has been batting in the middle all along. Anderson remained unbeaten on 95 from 44 balls including nine fours and six sixes. It went down as one of the best knocks in a run chase in T20 cricket, especially considering the stakes.
MI did not make it to the final of the season after getting knocked out by Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Nevertheless, it was one of the best comebacks in IPL history.
Current scenario
The problems for MI are different now. Their bowling has been impressive but their middle order’s form has been a major disappointment. Their inability to pace the innings in the middle overs has been an issue whether they are setting a target or chasing one. After a demoralising batting collapse, MI take on KL Rahul’s PBKS to revive their campaign. It will be challenge for a struggling MI batting lineup as PBKS bowlers were outstanding in the previous game where they defended a low total of 125 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
