IPL 2018: Key battles to watch out for in Mumbai Indians-Chennai Super Kings game

Mumbai: The battle line has been drawn. The Men in Blue from Mumbai are all set to host the Men in Yellow from Chennai when the fiercest rivals collide at Wankhede stadium in the opening game of  2018 Indian Premier League (IPL) in  Mumbai on Saturday.

Both the teams will look to open their campaign with a victory as players from both the side look to put on some brilliant performance on the field.

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The matches is expected to be a close affair, as players look to put strong performance during the game. Here's a look at some of the key battle that could change the course of the game.

Rohit Sharma vs MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni is back in the yellow jersey of  CSK after two years absence. The former team India skipper will look to start the campaign with a victory, as his leadership and batting will be crucial for CSK.

Rohit Sharma, fresh from leading team India to Nidahas Trophy title in Sri Lanka, will look to open this IPL campaign with victory MS Dhoni's team.   
The stylish right-hander, who has been a vital cog of the team since 2011, led Mumbai to IPL title in three occasions i.e. 2013, 2015 and 2017. Rohit form in the tournament will be crucial for Mumbai to defend their title.

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Suresh Raina vs Krunal Pandya

Suresh Raina is no stranger to IPL. The out-of-favour India all-rounder has been integral part of Chennai Super Kings. The Uttar Pradesh skipper has had best years, in yellow jersey. It was under Dhoni's regime that Raina blossomed as one o the best player in limited and T20 format. The left-hander will be eager to score heavily in this edition.

Krunal Pandya has been a revelation ever since he was brought by Mumbai Indians. The Baroda cricketer has become a vital cog in the Mumbai side along with his brother Hardik Pandya. He holds the middle order together and his contribution will be key to team's success.

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Dwayne Bravo vs Kieron Pollard

Dwayne Bravo is a favorite among Chennai fans and has been proven performer in T20 format across the world. Chennai has been a special place for the West Indian, who has had best moments in the yellow jersey. His all-around skills will add the cutting edge to the CSK side.
 
Just like his countryman, Kieron Pollard is also fan favorite among Mumbai crowd. The 30-year-old can turn around match single-handedly with the bat. His fielding skills and ability to chip in with wickets with the ball make him an asset.

Ravindra Jadeja vs Hardik Pandya

The battle of all-rounders will be a mouthwatering one. Jadeja, with his left arm spin, will be looking to keep Mumbai batsmen in check. His sharp fielding skills is an asset for CSK and can also chip in with runs low down the order.

Hardik Pandya will be crucial for Mumbai in this years IPL. Like Pollard, Pandya all-round ability and could play the role of the finisher for Mumbai .  

Jasprit Bumrah vs Harbhajan Singh

This is battle of youth vs experience. Bumrah is currently the best bowler during death overs and will be leading the Mumbai bowling attack in absence of senior bowlers like Harbhajan Singh and Lasith Malinga.

Harbhajan Singh who played for Mumbai since the inception of the tournament will be seen in yellow colors after Chennai brought him for Rs 2 crore during player’s auction.  With no Ravichandran Ashwin in the side, CSK will hope for the 37-year-old to be among wickets for the team to progress further in the tournament.