Brian Lara highlighted Mumbai Indians’ bowling deficiencies after their loss to CSK, emphasizing the lack of support for Jasprit Bumrah, who faced a tough task alone.
Mumbai Indians faced another devastating 20-run defeat against Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede Stadium on April 14th, marking their fourth loss and second at home this season. Criticism has fallen on MI’s bowling unit, with cricket icon Brian Lara suggesting the team lacks sufficient match-winners alongside Jasprit Bumrah.
Lara, speaking on Star Sports Cricket Live, acknowledged MI’s strong batting but emphasized the need for bowling improvements. He expressed disappointment over the lack of support for Bumrah, as CSK’s batters exploited MI’s bowling vulnerabilities. Lara also highlighted the spinners’ limited role and questioned their exclusion.
“Not much, I think when we look at Mumbai Indians, a lot of people have them as favorites, simply because they were batting so well, they came and they scored 230 runs, they chased on 196, made it look very easy, 15 overs, so on that fact I think, we pick them as favorites for this game, but their bowling is poor,” he said.
“Beyond Jasprit Bumrah, there was no one to support them in that bowling attack, and the CSK batters took them apart. The spinners, only bowled 4 overs after around 7 runs an over, but they weren’t trusted with Shivam Dube out there, so MI will have to improve in that area,” Lara added.
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The former West Indies legend further praised CSK’s bowling unit for their clinical performance, despite Mustafizur Rahman’s expensive spell. CSK’s bowlers built pressure effectively, with Matheesha Pathirana shining with four wickets for 28 runs. Lara highlighted the collective effort of CSK’s bowlers, emphasizing their consistency in delivering dot balls.
The Chennai Super Kings will next face Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Sports City on April 23.
Last Updated on April 15, 2024
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