Let us have a look at next four teams in the table:
Mumbai Indians: Points: 12 | Matches left: 6 | Opponents: CSK, RCB, KKR, RCB, KKR,RR.
Race for IPL 5 Playoffs – Part 2
Mumbai are currently at third of the table, they will face the toughest teams in coming matches. MI has to win 3 out of remaining 6 games which look like Mission Impossible. With tough opponents ahead, they might drop out of top 4 slots this time. Batting maestro Sachin is yet to fire this season and MI need impressive performance from Lasith Malinga. Opening slot has been a problem area for MI. Rohit Sharma and Ambatti Rayudu have shone once in previous games. Pollard’s injury has been a setback for Mumbai Indians.
Kings XI Punjab: Points: 10 | Matches left: 6 | Opponents: RR, DC, DC, DD, CSK, DD.
Apart from the 3rd place in the first season, Kings XI Punjab couldn’t show much. They expect to win two games against resurrecting DC and snatch one more to be able to qualify for top 4. Their hopes are laying on the batting line-up which including Shaun Marsh, David Hussey and Paul Valthatty. They are starting to play some good cricket since last three games.
Chennai Super Kings: Points: 9| Matches left: 6 | Opponents: DC, MI, RR, DD, KKR, KXIP.
If they win three or four matches, Chennai go through to playoffs. Looking at their record at home, they have only one match left at home. If they win match at home and at least three wins from remaining matches, they will sail into playoffs.Chennai has been the most balanced and consistent team for the 4 years of IPL. It is only team to feature in playoffs of all seasons and three times in finals, win it for consecutive times. Chennai hasn’t found many changes in their line-up over the years. That’s their strength and why they won IPL twice. This season they are failing to perform in either of the department in every game. Mike Hussey and Ben Hilfenhaus have arrived at the right time for CSK to boost their hopes. Chennai has come out of similar situations in last two seasons.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Points: 9 | Matches left: 6 | Opponents: DC, MI, PWI, MI, DD, DC.
Bangalore stands good chance to qualify if they win at least 4matches off 6 matches. Royal Challengers was on high note in the last season with the help of ‘Gayle storm’. Led by spinner Daniel Vettori, a considerable share of RCB’s chances will depend on the performance of Chris Gayle. Virat Kohli, currently world’s best ODI batsman is another weapon in RCB’s arsenal; but not yet fired in this season. RCB has the best batting side in IPL that includes TM Dilshan, AB deVilliers and Saurabh Tiwar. Gayle and Dilshan can be also used as part-time bowlers.
Tags: Chennai Super Kings, Cricket, IPL 2012, IPL 5, IPL Playoffs, Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore
