Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, May 20: Mumbai Indians (MI) will face Delhi Capitals (DC) in a crucial clash at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday. For DC, the equation is clear a loss will knock them out of the tournament. MI, too, face elimination if they lose, unless they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their final game and hope DC also lose to PBKS, along with a slip-up from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
The toss could play a huge role, with Wankhede offering chasing teams a significant edge. MI are yet to win a night game batting first this season but have the depth in batting and pace to pull it off, especially if conditions mirror their low-scoring thriller against Gujarat Titans.
DC’s challenge is steeper if they bat first. Without Mitchell Starc, their bowling looks lighter, and their batters must go big. Promoting Tristan Stubbs early could help boost their total. Meanwhile, MI will look to protect Suryakumar Yadav from Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav’s spin, possibly by promoting Tilak Varma.
The outcome could shape the playoff race, making this one of the most high-stakes encounters of the season.