Forced out of Maharashtra, Mumbai face ‘home team’ Sunrisers in Vizag

Champions Mumbai play their first ‘home’ game away on Sunday when they face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Visakhapatnam.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is no stranger to venue changes. Over its nine seasons, three editions have seen last minute adjustments and relocation. This year though, two teams in particular – Mumbai Indians and Rising Pune Supergiants - will have to face the inconvenience.

Due to the drought in Maharashtra, Mumbai Indians will play the remainder of their home games in Visakhapatnam. (PTI)

Champions Mumbai play their first ‘home’ game away on Sunday when they face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Visakhapatnam.

With the tournament at its business end and jostling on for knockout berths, it is a phase when MI need home advantage, something that played a vital role in last year’s title triumph.

For Mumbai, victories at home have always come at the right time. This year, though, they have been forced to change their home base for the rest of the competition owing to the drought in Maharashtra.

Members of the team management and captain Rohit Sharma spoke at length to the ground staff about the pitch. A win over Sunrisers on Sunday could see Mumbai move past them into fourth place in the table.

Although Mumbai are a settled side, Sunrisers are flying high after a series of victories. MI seemed to suffer due to their over-dependence on Rohit, but Parthiv Patel, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya and Ambati Rayudu have provided backup. In bowling, Mitch McClenaghan and Tim Southee have come good in the absence of the injured Sri Lankan slinger, Lasith Malinga.

“As players we have played a lot of matches here, but as a team it will be our first game. We will have to look [at] the wicket tomorrow and assess the conditions and play accordingly,” pacer Jasprit Bumrah said.

“It is a challenge. We have practiced on the ground and have got a feel of it. As professionals, we have to adapt and try and do well in Vizag.”