In less than ten hours, the cash-rich Indian Premier League will be kicking off with a blockbuster clash between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings. Just ahead of the tournament resuming its second phase in the UAE, former Indian opener, Virender Sehwag opened up about his thoughts on the winner.
Talking about the winning prospect of the tournament, Sehwag cited, “Since the second half has been shifted to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, I think Delhi and Mumbai will again be favourites and the five-time champions MI are slightly ahead.”
A short glance at IPL 2021
The tournament started in May 2021 and carried on at a smooth pace until a bio-bubble breach compelled the authorities to put a halt to affairs.
In the preceding edition of the tournament, Delhi Capitals pumped out a scintillating illustration to make it to their first-ever final of the tournament. However, according to Sehwag, he would place his wager on five-time champions, Mumbai Indians.
He also believed that with the party arriving in the UAE, the conditions won’t be particularly friendly to the resurgent Chennai Super Kings.
Here is what Sehwag had to say about his choices
Sehwag clarified his stance on backing Mumbai as he was heard saying, “Chennai’s average score in India was 201 during the first phase, but I think when it comes to UAE tracks, they would be lacking a bit in batting firepower. If I have to pick one team, that will be Mumbai.”
Viru also said that it will need a while for Chennai to attune them to the new conditions of the UAE which will be drastically different from the flat surfaces of India.
Also, the apex cricket body, ICC has allowed a window until October 10th to change their players and Sehwag believes that this still leaves a window of opportunity open to players to make the cut for the national team in case if they can belt out a superior display.
Sehwag concluded by saying that the selectors will have a close eye on the domestic extravaganza and a top-notch showdown can still impact a couple of changes in the national team before the tournament kicks off on 23rd October.
