0:
It's now time for match no. 34 in the Indian T20 League where Mumbai are set to lock horns with Kolkata in a very crucial contest in Abu Dhabi. Both the teams have had a mixed campaign so far and this could prove to be a very significant match for them in their race to qualify for play-offs. With very little to choose between the two sides, we try to determine who could be the favourites in this contest by considering the following factors:
1. Head-to-head record
Mumbai have absolutely dominated this fixture over the years, winning 22 out of 28 meetings between the two sides. It was Rohit Sharma's side who went on to win the thrilling contest played earlier this season.
2. UAE factor
The two teams had clashed twice at the same venue last year with Mumbai coming out on top on both occasions. Talking about the pitch, the pace bowlers can have a huge impact in this contest and Mumbai's trio of Adam Milne, Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah is undoubtedly the best attack in the entire tournament.
3. Form of players
Kolkata have a slight edge in terms of recent form as they are coming to this contest on the back of an impressive win. However, with the duo of Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya expected to return to the Mumbai Playing XI, they will suddenly become quite lethal on paper, with two match-winners back in side.
Considering the above-mentioned factors, the team of the day is Mumbai.