The most successful team in the history of the Indian Premier League meet 2008’s inaugural champions and 2022’s losing finalists.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of Sunday’s clash.
Who, when, where
Mumbai Indians v Rajasthan Royals, 3pm BST, Sunday 30 April 2023, Mumbai
Talking points
Mumbai’s five titles are the most in IPL history, but they’ve struggled for an extended period since their last tournament win. They finished in last position in 2022 and are currently in the bottom half of the 10-team table.
This match against the Royals is another opportunity to right their recent wrongs and perhaps come away with a win that could ignite the rest of their 2023 campaign. Whether that amounts to a play-off berth or a mid-table finish remains in the balance.
The Royals have looked particularly strong this year and have consistently jostled for position with the Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans for top spot in the standings. The captaincy of Sanju Samson, coupled with input from overseas talent such as Jos Buttler, has gone a long way.
Interestingly, both teams will go into this game in the wake of two successive defeats, although the Royals won their last game against the Super Kings. The T20 format speaks a lot to momentum and game-on-game motivation. Both teams will be mindful that just one win could right their course.
Head-to-head
Mumbai and Rajasthan have all but taken it in turns to beat each other in their last five meetings. Mumbai have three wins and the Royals two.
Stars to watch
Yuzvendra Chahal continues to exploit conditions well and take wickets at regular intervals. He was the leading wicket-taker in the IPL last season and could be a good pick for the same this time. The Royals have a major asset in Chahal.
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green has put in some match-winning performances with bat and ball for Mumbai. He is a welcome addition to their squad and playing XI, bringing a dynamic balance to both.
Prediction
The Royals are looking the best set to win this one. Mumbai have threatened to put their campaign back on track, but Rajasthan have been able to have this mentality as a theme rather than in isolation.
Suggested bets
Rajasthan Royals to beat Mumbai Indians
Rohit Sharma to be top batsman for Mumbai
Yuzvendra Chahal to be top bowler for Rajasthan
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