IPL: CSK vs MI - Must win for Mumbai

Mumbai Indians got their title defence off to an awful start. They have so far failed to perform against Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore. A general failure of the batting department has seen them rake up only 238 runs in 2 complete innings. The bowling department provided good starts in both the games thanks to Zaheer Khan and Lasith Malinga, but pretty much crumbled after with Harbhajan, Ojha, Pollard and Corey Anderson failing to produce the performances that earned them their multi-crore contracts. Starting the season on such a note is not exactly a death sentence, but unless they set things straight quickly, things could get embarrassing. Especially, when you consider that they are unlikely to have the services of their most in form player – Lasith Malinga – for the May portion of the tournament.
Chennai Super Kings had an ominous start to the season as well, with Kings XI Punjab chasing down a mammoth total of 205 in their season opener. Their 93 run win against the Delhi Daredevils represented a pleasant return to form. Losing Dwayne Bravo opened up an overseas slot for Hilfenhaus and even though he only bowled 2 overs he looked a major step up from Nehra against Kings XI Punjab.  The all round domination against Delhi, was followed up by with another win against Rajasthan Royals. A great all round performance by Ravindra Jadeja and a smashing batting performance by Dwayne Smith lead them to a close 7 run win.
Mumbai Indians go into this game with 2 consecutive losses against the in-form Superkings. The fact that Mumbai’s team has failed in almost all departments, and that the Superkings have earned their wins with a combined team effort really makes it an easy one to call – in theory. But the desperation of a win along with the talent that Mumbai have on offer can turn this around irrespective of their form. Losing this will make them favorites for the wooden spoon and that is not a distinction anybody wants.