Mumbai take on Rajasthan in clash of titans

Kolkata: Notwithstanding serious doubts over injured Sachin Tendulkar’s availability, Mumbai Indians will look to exorcise their Indian Premier League (IPL) play-off demons when they meet Rajasthan Royals — a team determined to redeem themselves after being rocked by the spot-fixing scandal — at the Eden Gardens here on Friday for a place in the final.

Over the years, despite having several superstars of world cricket in their ranks, Mumbai have made it to the title round only once in 2010, but finished runners-up. In the last two editions they were eliminated in the play-offs.

Their opponents Rajasthan, who are battling spot-fixing demons after three of their players including India international S. Sreesanth were arrested, have made it to the play-offs for the first time since becoming champions in the IPL’s inaugural season.

Mumbai, led by skipper Rohit Sharma (534 runs) and wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik (467 runs), have a very steady batting line-up. The big hitting Caribbean duo of Dwayne Smith and Kieron Pollard add further muscle to the firepower, with their ability to take the game away from any rival once they get cracking.

On the bowling front, the Mumbai outfit has a very potent attack comprising the likes of Lasith Malinga and Mitchell Johnson who between themselves have 39 scalps. With the Eden wicket keeping low and affording turn, the formidable spin partners Harbhajan Singh and Pragyan Ojha may well pose a threat to the Royals.

On the flip side, Mumbai have been hit by injury blues. Tendulkar (287 runs) is uncertain for Friday’s game with an injured left wrist and hand. Pacer Dhawal Kulkarni is out of the tournament with a side strain.

After the spot-fixing scandal exploded, going out and performing without inhibitions in front of thousands of prying eyes, has been a challenge for the Rahul Dravid led side.

However, they managed to hold on to their nerves to beat Sunrisers Hyderabad in a low scoring game Wednesday to seal a birth for the final playoff, the winner of which will clash with Chennai Super Kings in the final to be played at the Eden Gardens on Sunday.

The Royals too are a formidable side galvanised by the likes of Shane Watson who single handedly can change the complexion of the game both with the bat and the ball.

Friday’s play-off at the Eden Gardens will surely be a mouth watering proposition for an expected capacity crowd to witness two legends of Indian cricket Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar crossing swords. Along with Mumbaikars, fans all-across would wish for Tendulkar to be fit for the game.