IPL 2020: Sunil Gavaskar Points Out Mumbai Indians' Weaknesses

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has opened up on the chinks in the Mumbai Indians’ armour ahead of the 13th edition of IPL. Mumbai Indians, who are the defending champions, will open their campaign against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Abu Dhabi on the 19th of September. Sunil Gavaskar has elaborated on the Achilles Heels of the Rohit Sharma-led side.

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Mumbai Indians is the most successful franchise of the lot, having lifted the trophy four times so far. Rohit Sharma, who took over as captain in 2013, has guided the franchise to four titles so far, including that year. The likes of Kieron Pollard, Rohit Sharma, Japsrit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Krunal Pandya have been quite significant in their highly successful run so far.

According to Sunil Gavaskar, Mumbai Indians do not have experienced spinners in their repertoire unlike the other teams. The likes of Rahul Chahar and Krunal Pandya have decent IPL experience; however, hardly have international exposure. Jayant Yadav and Anukul Roy are their backups, who do not have much IPL experience either. Hence, their spin-department is worrisome on spinning decks at the UAE.

“Yes you can say that because they do not have the experienced spinners that other sides have,” Gavaskar told Sports Tak.

Sunil Gavaskar comments on Mumbai Indians’ middle-order:

The 70-year old further said that their middle-order looks fragile too and will have to assess the ones batting at number four and five. Gavaskar opines that if Quinton de Kock opens the innings, Rohit Sharma or Suryakumar Yadav will likely partner him. The former prolific opening batsman added that if Hardik Pandya does not receive a promotion at number four, it remains unclear who occupies that position.

“The other thing that can be a weakness is middle order. They will have to think who will bat at No.4 and No.5 position. If Quinton de Kock plays, then he will open with either Rohit Sharma or Suryakumar Yadav. Ishan Kishan might come in at No.4, he can also open the innings. Kieron Pollard can come in at No.5. Maybe Hardik Pandya can be promoted to No.4. But if that doesn’t happen then who will play at No.4?” he added.

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