MUMBAI: As has always been the case, for the umpteenth time in the Indian Premier League (IPL), the much-awaited clash between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings is once again set to be a battle of equals.
Except, they're equals at the bottom of the table.
T20's 'El Clasico' - played between two teams who've won nine out of the 14 titles so far between them - is a clash this time to avoid the proverbial wooden spoon. The script that's gone 'wonky' got rewritten by fate when introduction of two new franchises last year led to both, MI and CSK, having to let go of their core and look at the mega-auctions on a fresh note.
So, on that very fresh note, the two teams most responsible for making IPL's television numbers crash through the roof over the years like no other franchise, will take guard at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Thursday evening.
Their miseries stem from a common worry - bowling. It lacks teeth. They must wait for this season to get over, see what they can gain during the transfer window, identify talent available in India and globally and make up for what was a lost opportunity at the auction.
On that note, MI can look forward to Jofra Archer coming on board. Until then, both sides can only try and avoid the ignominy of their collective losses this season.
Chennai have conceded at nine runs per over and Mumbai at 9. 5. Accordingly, Chennai are ninth on the points table and Mumbai 10th.
Mumbai have suffered from Jasprit Bumrah not getting the needed support, Chennai have been hurt by Deepak Chahar's absence. Batting too has been a worry on most occasions. Ruturaj Gaikwad (barring the last game) for Chennai and Rohit Sharma for Mumbai Indians - both at the top of the order - haven't hit top gear.
Numbers alone, however, don't tell the full story when it comes to these teams.
