IPL 2021: WATCH - "Most of the games will be very closely fought," says MI head coach Mahela Jayawardena

Mumbai Indians have played two matches and they registered their first win against KKR in last game.

Mahela Jayawardena | Mumbai Indians/ScreengrabMumbai Indians (MI) head coach Mahela Jayawardena is expecting more highly intense matches in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2021). He said the matches will be very closely fought as no team has the home advantage with them.

MI, who have played two matches in the season so far, will be facing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their next match on Saturday (April 17). Jayawardena rates the David Warner-led side a very competitive team.

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"I think, this season most of the games will be very closely fought. All the teams are quite strong and everyone is playing in conditions which they have to get used to. SRH is a team that always qualifies for the playoffs. 

"They have a very good record and they are a very competitive team. They know exactly what their strengths are and they challenge any team in those strengths. Very talented individuals they have," said Jayawardene in a video posted by MI ahead of their match against SRH at Chepauk.

Mumbai Indians lost their opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore and won the second one beating Kolkata Knight Riders. It was a close game against Kolkata and their bowlers pulled off a miraculous comeback to secure the match.

"Having not played the best cricket in the first half of the KKR game, for the guys to come back was very good. To start the tournament, getting points on the board is quite crucial. The wickets will not improve, it will be the same. It has to do with the bowlers as well. I think it's about execution in the middle. Both teams have some quality bowling and that is where the advantage lies. It will be a very interesting battle," he added.

MI bowling coach Shane Bond wants the players to adapt to the dew factor. A few captains have already talked about the dew playing a major role.

(With ANI Inputs)

 
 

By - 17 Apr, 2021

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