Champions League T20: Chennai Super Kings hold all the aces

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Two of the biggest draws in the Champions League will look at losing inertia quickly.

Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have played a few tight games in the past (IPL) and to pick a winner from the two has always been a great gamble. However the hosts will carry a slight advantage mainly because of the injury concerns that behest Mumbai.

The technical committee’s decision to allow Mumbai five foreign players has not been received well by the other franchises. There is no cricket logic to the call and if the fifth overseas player is to turn out a match winning effort, Chennai will feel cheated.

The wicket has been re-laid at the MAC Stadium and should play a touch slow. Rain has also affected preparation but the Super Kings should not be complaining given their strength in spin.

Mumbai will burn some midnight oil before finalizing their XI. A lot will depend on how Harbhajan Singh marshals his resources.

“To lead Mumbai Indians is an honour and a huge opportunity. I have led the team before in the IPL. We keep giving Dhoni inputs and I have learnt a lot doing that. We are not looking too far ahead and at the same time confident of a good performance with the available resources”, said Harbhajan who added that he has recovered completely from the injury that forced him to return from England.

The opening combination of Mike Hussey and M. Vijay has worked well in the past. The team batting first will enjoy an advantage and MS Dhoni would hope for a solid foundation for the duo. “I think we complement each other well. Though we have not played a lot together the understanding between us is good. As far as power play goes I think it is important to asses the conditions before setting a target”, said Hussey.

Chennai has reaped the rewards for retaining their core side. The trophy shelf is ample proof of their growing prowess. The enviable home record will spur them as well. Coach Stephen Fleming was certain of guarding his team against complacency. We are competing on a world stage. There is a lot of pride associated with CSK and I am sure there will not be short of commitment”, explained the Kiwi.

Mumbai has had numerous problems to deal with. Chennai on the other hand had only a single practice session with the full squad. Fleming downplayed the issue.

“There is no problem. It has been the same guys and we had a good session today. There is lot excitement in getting together as a full squad. We are looking forward to the competition”, added Fleming.