Synopsis
Mark Boucher, former head coach of Mumbai Indians, expresses confidence that Hardik Pandya's team will head into their IPL 2025 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad with high spirits following a thrilling 12-run victory over Delhi Capitals, highlighting the team's potential and key players to watch.Key Takeaways
- Mumbai Indians gained confidence from a comeback win.
- Bowler Karn Sharma played a pivotal role in the victory.
- Tilak Varma is crucial for MI's batting lineup.
- Expectations are high for Suryakumar Yadav to deliver a big performance.
- Upcoming match against SRH at Wankhede Stadium promises excitement.
New Delhi, April 15 (NationPress) Mark Boucher, the former head coach of Mumbai Indians, is confident that the Hardik Pandya-led team will approach Thursday's IPL 2025 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at their home ground, Wankhede Stadium, with a significant boost in morale following their dramatic 12-run victory over Delhi Capitals.
During the match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, DC seemed to be on track for victory while chasing 206, reaching 113/1 at the halfway point. However, a remarkable comeback from MI's bowlers, spearheaded by leg-spinner Karn Sharma with figures of 3-36, coupled with a strategic ball change after the 13th over, led to a collapse in DC's batting, sealing just MI's second win of the season.
Returning to their home turf, MI will face SRH, who recently chased down 245 runs against Punjab Kings, with left-handed opener Abhishek Sharma smashing an impressive 141. Boucher commented, 'Mumbai Indians are in a positive frame of mind, especially after clinching a tight match. They've had their share of close losses, but this win should elevate their spirits.'
He continued, 'Hardik mentioned that had they scored a few more runs in those tight matches, the outcomes could have been different. Therefore, it’s encouraging for them to have turned the tables in a challenging situation.'
'To pull off a win from a difficult position will instill a lot of confidence, demonstrating that they can emerge victorious from dire circumstances. This boost will surely enhance their morale,' added Boucher.
Discussing the upcoming game against SRH at the Wankhede Stadium, Boucher noted that while the bowlers may feel some pressure, they also have a chance to take early wickets. As a JioStar expert, he shared insights with IANS on Tuesday.
From a batting standpoint, Boucher highlighted that left-handed batsman Tilak Varma will be crucial for MI, while he anticipates Suryakumar Yadav to deliver a standout performance soon.
In the recent match, Varma, who had previously been retired out in Lucknow, showcased his skills by scoring 59 off 43 balls, helping MI to a total of 205/5. Notably, this was the first time Varma's fifty resulted in a victory.
'I believe the top-order batsmen haven't quite performed to their expectations. This is definitely something they'll be addressing. However, if they can establish a solid start, the middle order, especially with a player like Tilak Varma, who is now back in form, should excel.'
'Then there's Surya, who has had a couple of solid innings but hasn't yet converted those into big scores. If he manages to score 90 runs, the team should win, especially with Hardik in good form as well.'
'So, I expect them to be a confident side, hoping that this latest victory, which defied the odds, will serve as a catalyst for their 2025 IPL campaign,' concluded Boucher.
