Suryakumar missed MI’s IPL 2022 opener against Delhi Capitals on March 27.
Suryakumar had sustained a hairline fracture on his thumb during the T20I series against the West Indies in February. Subsequently, he underwent a rehab at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru and missed MI’s IPL 2022 opener against Delhi Capitals on March 27.
However, the middle-order batter has now joined the MI squad and he is declared fit to take part in the game against RR.
WATCH - Suryakumar Yadav joins MI camp; meets RR's Lasith Malinga during practice
“He is available for selection, as I said earlier that he is practicing, so it’s a thing which we all are eagerly waiting for and his availability for next game he is available,” Zaheer said during the pre-match press conference on the eve of their match.
Dew has played a vital role this season as bowlers have found it tough to grip the ball, especially in the second innings.
“Dew is something not in our control. It becomes difficult for spinners, even for pacers, the yorkers go wrong at times. So those are the challenges of the game, we have to deal with it,” Zaheer said.
Mumbai Indians’ campaign got off to a disappointing start as they suffered a four-wicket defeat at the hands of Delhi Capitals. However, Zaheer remains unfazed about it.
“There have been a lot of constructive chats, but we usually have been slow starters. I am happy with the way we have planned, the last game was a good learning for us. Different phases of the game have certain importance. You want the best batters and bowlers in certain phases. Effort is made to have that communication with each individual.”
There was an injury concern for MI in their first game when Ishan Kishan was hit on the toe by a Shardul Thakur yorker and Aryan Juyal kept wickets in his place.
Providing update on Kishan’s fitness, Zaheer said: "He (Kishan) is absolutely fine. We have taken necessary actions. He has been practicing regularly and we had a gap in between so that also helped him."
MI lost to DC despite posting 177 on the board, but the former India pacer is not too concerned about the team's bowling performance.
"I am happy with the way the plans are working, the way everyone is looking at approaching this year. You will definitely see the change in the coming games. "It was good learning for us. You have seen the CCI wicket is not an easy wicket for bowlers. You have seen in yesterday's game also, 200 runs were chased. So, it was not an easy day for the bowlers, but in terms of planning and preparation they are right on the money," added Zaheer.
(With PTI inputs)