Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah during practice ahead of Mumbai Indians vs RCB IPL 2025 match at Wankhede
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Mumbai Indians are struggling with early momentum once again. Although their squad is full of talent, poor starts have become a pattern. In the first four matches of IPL 2025, they have lost eight wickets during the PowerPlay—second-most among all teams. In contrast, they have taken only five wickets in this phase, which is also among the league’s lowest.

Interestingly, their only solid start came against Kolkata Knight Riders. In that game, Mumbai picked up four wickets in the first six overs and lost just one. Unsurprisingly, that was the only match they managed to win so far.

Jayawardene Highlights the Issue

Speaking after their recent loss, head coach Mahela Jayawardene didn’t shy away from addressing the team’s problems.

“Yes, we’ve looked at those numbers. Starting with a new group of players always presents challenges. However, the PowerPlay has clearly been an issue. Whenever we’ve taken control in the early overs, we’ve played better cricket.”

Therefore, it’s evident that Mumbai must regain control in the early phase to reverse their fortunes.

Bumrah and Rohit Set for Return

Fortunately, Mumbai’s hopes will receive a boost on Monday. Jasprit Bumrah, who has missed all four games so far, is available for selection. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma—who sat out the last match with a knee concern—might also return.

With both players known for making an impact early in the game, their comeback could address MI’s PowerPlay concerns.

RCB Look to Bounce Back After Slip

While MI search for form, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have had a more balanced start. They opened their campaign with strong wins over CSK and KKR. Although they lost their last game at home, the mood in the camp remains upbeat.

“These things happen,” Tim David said. “We lost early wickets, but overall, we’re happy with the way we’ve begun the season.”

Considering their strong top order and improved bowling lineup, RCB are confident heading into this clash.

Match Info

  • 📅 Date: Monday, April 7
  • 🕢 Time: 7:30 PM IST
  • 📍 Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Wankhede is expected to offer a batting-friendly surface. In addition, the short boundaries could further boost scoring. As the evening progresses, dew might come into play, which often gives the chasing side an edge.

Head-to-Head Stats

  • Overall: MI lead 19-14
  • At Wankhede: MI lead 8-3
  • Last RCB win at Wankhede: 2015

Despite recent form, RCB have a poor record at this venue. They’ve lost six games in a row here since 2015.

Mumbai Indians

  • ✅ Injury Update: Bumrah is fit to play. Rohit’s return is likely but still awaits confirmation.
  • 🔄 Tactical Call: Deepak Chahar and Trent Boult may continue with the new ball, while Bumrah could be saved for middle and death overs. Vignesh Puthur might come in as a match-up option.

Probable XI:
Rohit Sharma, Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Naman Dhir, Raj Bawa, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Vignesh Puthur

Royal Challengers Bengaluru

  • ✅ Fitness Update: No injuries reported.
  • 📊 Strategy: Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will aim to exploit MI’s shaky top order. Meanwhile, Suyash Sharma will target MI’s middle overs.

Probable XI:
Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma

Key Match Insights

  • MI have taken just 1 PowerPlay wicket in three out of their four games.
  • Hardik Pandya has claimed 7 wickets from hard lengths, most among seamers this season.
  • Tim David’s strike rate of 220.83 in death overs leads IPL 2025 (min 20 balls).

What They Said

🗣️ Jayawardene (MI):
“We’ve been competitive. However, we must be more ruthless in crunch moments.”

🗣️ Tim David (RCB):
“It’s special returning to Mumbai. There are a lot of memories, but my focus is now on delivering for RCB.”