IPL 2025: Advantage for KKR as Mumbai Struggles, Says Chandrakant Pandit

Synopsis

Chandrakant Pandit, head coach of KKR, asserts that the Mumbai Indians' back-to-back losses give KKR a strategic advantage ahead of their IPL 2025 match at Wankhede Stadium. KKR looks to capitalize on Mumbai's struggles while remaining cautious of the home advantage.

Key Takeaways

KKR coach believes Mumbai's poor form can be exploited.
Jasprit Bumrah's absence noted as a factor.
Rahane's leadership praised for composure.
Quinton de Kock shows impressive form.
Sunil Narine is fit and available for selection.

Mumbai, March 30 (NationPress) Head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders, Chandrakant Pandit, believes that Mumbai Indians' consecutive defeats provide KKR with an opportunity to apply pressure on the home team before their match at Wankhede Stadium in the upcoming IPL 2025 encounter on Monday.

This match will mark KKR's third game in IPL 2025, following a commanding eight-wicket win against Rajasthan Royals in their last outing in Guwahati. On the other hand, the Mumbai Indians are desperately seeking to regain their form after suffering two losses at the start of the season.

While analyzing the Mumbai Indians' bowling unit, Pandit recognized the absence of Jasprit Bumrah but warned against underestimating the other bowlers. "Bumrah significantly impacts Mumbai, but their remaining bowlers are quite capable," Pandit remarked.

Pandit expressed confidence that his team could take advantage of Mumbai's rocky start, although he remained cautious regarding the home advantage. "My focus is primarily on how well our team performed in the last match. Unfortunately, Mumbai Indians haven't reached that level, which gives us an added advantage to apply pressure on them. However, given that the match is in Mumbai, we must quickly adapt to local conditions, which we have been preparing for. I am optimistic we can do this," he stated.

Commenting on Rahane's leadership qualities, Pandit praised his captain's ability to maintain composure under pressure. "Everyone recognizes Rahane's skills. Not only is he leading KKR, but he also has experience captaining the Mumbai team and India. He possesses various leadership styles and approaches. After an excellent domestic season, his confidence was evident in our first game. He is highly respected within the team, particularly for his calmness in challenging situations," Pandit added.

The coach also expressed his pleasure with Quinton de Kock's recent performance, where he scored an impressive 97 not out to guide the team to victory. Pandit emphasized that de Kock's aggressive strategy during the powerplay generates vital momentum. "Quinton's start to this tournament has been remarkable. His confidence in T20 cricket is outstanding. Having a player who can attack in the initial overs changes the game for the entire team. That's the value he adds," Pandit said.

Pandit confirmed that KKR's star player Sunil Narine has fully recovered from his injury and will be available for selection after training with the squad.