Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans will be competing to make a place for the second qualifier against the Punjab Kings after the Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated the latter in the first qualifier by a massive 8-wicket margin. Both Gujarat and Mumbai will aim to take the win away and take one step forward in the race for the IPL trophy. Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and elected to bat first. This was pretty unusual to the trend as the team had earlier opted to bowl first after winning the toss.
“We’re going to bat. Looks like a different track to yesterday. Bit of less grass. Big game, scoring runs and defending would be nice. We all are aware, for the last 9 games we have been playing it like a knockout. Really need to turn up today and focus on the things which we can control.” MI captain Hardik Pandya said.
Is Batting First Worth?
The pitch at Mullanpur features square boundaries of 62 and 65 metres, with a straight boundary of 73 metres, making it deceptively large. The pitch is grassy, assisting batters with good bounce and carry. One end has extra grass aiding pacers, while the other has bare patches where spinners may operate, potentially offering some grip. Dew is expected due to moisture in the air. Batting first is the preferred option for captains after winning the toss.
Surprisingly, Gujarat Titans’ captain also expressed his desire to having opted to bat first in case of winning the toss.
“We would’ve chased. If someone would’ve said at the start of the season that we would’ve qualified, we would’ve taken it. Boys are very excited to be able to come back here in Chandigarh, it’s my home town. This game is no different for us, no pressure of the knockout game or anything.” Gill said.
