IPL 2023: 3 changes MI need to do to get back to winning ways

Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) are struggling to showcase their best in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. So far, they have played two games in the tournament, losing both by a comprehensive margin. In their opening match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, they got outclassed by the home team in all three departments.

After facing a humiliating defeat at the hands of Royal Challengers, Mumbai were looking to open their account against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at their home ground, Wankhede Stadium. However, the Yellow Army dominated the hosts throughout the match and went back with a spectacular seven-wicket triumph.

Their next contest will be against David Warner-led Delhi Capitals (DC) who, too, are desperately looking for their first win in the tournament. Ahead of their third contest, the Men in Blue and Golden will look to work on their shortcomings and fetch an amazing victory at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

Here are three changes MI should make before their next clash:

1. Riley Meredith in for Jason Behrendorff

Australia pacer Jason Behrendorff hasn’t performed according to his potential, failing to contribute to his team so far in the tournament. Against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), he looked horrendous with the ball, splurging 37 runs in his three-over spell at an expensive economy of 12.33. The speedster also went wicketless in the match.

In the second match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), he dismissed dangerous Devon Conway in his first over and gave a perfect start to his team. However, he couldn’t continue his aggressive bowling as other CSK batters showed a fearless approach and subdued him. Talking about his overall numbers in the first couple of games for Mumbai, the Aussie quick has taken only one wicket at a terrible economy of 10.17.

Going by these numbers, we might see the fast bowler getting dropped by the MI management, who might replace him with his compatriot Riley Meredith. Meredith has featured in 13 IPL games and has bagged 12 wickets. In Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), he has been a vital cog in Hobart Hurricanes on account of his fierce bowling. With his ability to clock over 140 km/h consistently, he could wreak havoc for MI on opponents.