Mumbai Indians (MI) are gearing up to face the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their final match of the 2024 Indian Premier League season. Currently positioned at the bottom of the points table with eight points from 13 matches, MI is looking to finish on a high note. Meanwhile, LSG still has a slim chance of making it to the playoffs, but their net run rate (NRR) poses a significant challenge. Even if LSG wins and ends up with 14 points, their NRR is less favorable compared to teams like Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who both have better NRRs and stand a stronger chance of qualifying.
The match will take place on May 16 at 7:30 PM IST at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, with live streaming available on the JioCinema App.
This season has been underwhelming for MI, the five-time champions. Even a win in their final game might not be enough to lift them from the bottom spot since Punjab Kings also have a match left to play. Looking ahead to the Mega Auctions before the next season, MI will aim to rebuild and improve their squad.
Naman Dhir from MI stated that the team will be playing for pride in this final match. Captain Hardik Pandya and his squad hope to end the season positively and carry some momentum into the global T20 tournament in June. Many MI players will represent India in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies, seeking to gain confidence from this game.
The probable playing XI for MI includes: Ishan Kishan (WK), Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (C), Nehal Wadhera, Tim David, Mohammad Nabi, Piyush Chawla, Gerald Coetzee or Luke Wood, Jasprit Bumrah, and Nuwan Thushara.
On the other side, LSG has experienced an inconsistent season, showing moments of brilliance but struggling with consistency. Their NRR has been a significant issue, worsened by a heavy defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad, who chased down their target in just 10 overs. Despite the challenges, LSG aims to end the season with a win, which would leave them with enough points to qualify, though their NRR would still be a hindrance.
The probable playing XI for LSG includes: Quinton De Kock, KL Rahul (C), Deepak Hooda, Marcus Stoinis, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Krunal Pandya, Arshad Khan, Ravi Bishnoi, Yash Thakur, and Naveen-ul-Haq.
At Wankhede Stadium, teams winning the toss usually opt to field first due to the short boundaries and batting-friendly pitch. Historically, in 115 IPL matches at this venue, teams batting first have won 53 times, while those chasing have won 62 times.