The IPL moves to Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where two teams eager to regain their confidence and momentum in the new season face off in an attempt to secure their first points in IPL 2025. The Mumbai Indians were defeated by their rivals, CSK, in the opening match of the tournament, despite a commendable performance from debutant Vignesh Puthur. On the other hand, the Gujarat Titans experienced a challenging outing as their bowling attack was overwhelmed by Shreyas Iyer and Shashank Singh. Although they appeared to be in a strong position during the chase, their innings faltered at a critical moment.

Neither team needs to panic just yet, but they understand that starting the season with a 0-2 record complicates their efforts to keep pace with the top teams in the standings. Consequently, this match is crucial, as a loss would be disappointing for either side, while a victory would place the winning team in a more favorable position within a tightly contested table.

In terms of potential lineup changes, both teams may consider adjustments to find the optimal combinations. Many were taken aback by Glenn Phillips not being included in the GT lineup, particularly given the instability of their middle order in his absence. He could seamlessly fit into the number four spot, although Sherfane Rutherford might feel aggrieved if he were to be left out after scoring 46 runs off 28 balls. Additionally, Phillips offers a bowling option and brings an undeniable, potentially game-changing energy to the field.

In contrast, Mumbai will receive a significant advantage with the return of Hardik Pandya from his suspension, just in time to compete against the franchise he previously guided to the IPL title in 2022. Pandya is expected to add an element of unpredictability to the batting lineup and serve as a dependable additional seam option. He may replace Satyanarayana Raju, who bowled only one over against CSK, thereby strengthening MI's batting depth. Alternatively, he could take the place of Ryan Rickelton or Will Jacks, allowing for the inclusion of an extra overseas fast bowler on the seam-friendly Wankhede pitch.

A crucial early contest in this match will be between Trent Boult and GT’s top order, which is undoubtedly their greatest asset. If Boult can secure early wickets, a skill he has mastered, it could significantly weaken that batting lineup and enable captain Hardik to utilize his extensive resources for a decisive victory. Consequently, GT will rely heavily on their top three—Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharshan, and Jos Buttler—to perform well, balancing the need to protect their wickets while maintaining an aggressive approach.

MI likely XI: Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Will Jacks, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (c), Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Trent Boult, Vignesh Puthur

GT likely XI: Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharshan, Jos Buttler (wk), Glenn Phillips, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Sai Kishore, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

Read Also: ‘CSK Coaching Staff Lacks Guts to Ask Dhoni to Bat Higher’: Manoj Tiwary After RCB Triumph in Chennai

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