IPL7: Inspired Mumbai up against Knight Riders
MI would have to win all their remaining matches if they want a berth in the play-offs
Cuttack: High on confidence after beating table-toppers Kings XI Punjab in their previous game, Kolkata Knight Riders will look to continue the winning momentum when they take on erratic defending champions Mumbai Indians here on Wednesday.
The last time the two sides faced off in the tournament opener in the United Arab Emirates, the Knight Riders came out triumphant. The Kolkata outfit, though, has been struggling to find its feet in the ongoing tournament, but back-to-back victories, especially a win against a strong Punjab side at this very venue, must have done their confidence a world of good.
Come Wednesday, KKR, who are placed fourth in the points table with four wins in nine games, would certainly be keen to go all out for a victory and brighten their chances of making the play-off stage.
Their batting has clicked against both Delhi Daredevils and KXIP, with underfire skipper Gautam Gambhir leading from the front striking a couple of superb half-centuries to guide the team to victory. Robin Uthappa and Manish Pandey have also made significant contributions in the last two games and would be looking to continue with their exploits. With mystery spinner Sunil Narine around, Mumbai would definitely be wary of Kolkata's bowling unit.
MI are well aware that they would have to win all their remaining matches if they want a berth in the play-offs.