The Mumbai Indians knew what exactly they have to do against Southern Express to remain in contention of defending their Champions League title and they delivered just that and registered nine-wicket win in their second qualifier.
Powered by openers Lendl Simmons (76 not out) and Michael Hussey (60), the Mumbai-based franchise chased down a 162-run target, with 20 balls to spare. Hussey (60), however, couldn’t finish the job but when he fell Mumbai were within touching distance of a win.
Earlier, the Kieron Pollard-led side got a 162 runs target, which was, even if not massive, very competitive. Opener Hussey and Simmons stitched a 139-run partnership, while Pollard (20 not out) promoted himself up the order and provide a glittering end to the innings.
After electing to field first, Mumbai picked wickets on regular intervals and never allowed Express to remain on track. Kusal Perera (8) and Yashoda Lanka (9) were dismissed cheaply but Danushka Gunathilaka (30) tried to anchor the innings.
The Sri Lankan team struggled to make any big partnerships as the Mumbai bowlers kept them under pressure. Farveez Maharoof, meanwhile, made an unbeaten quick-firing 22-ball 41 to help his side cross 150-run mark, which was at one point looked difficult.
Off-spinner Harbhajan Singh was the pick of the bowlers, although he did not get any wicket but was instrumental in knotting the Lankan batsmen. Pollard, Lasith Malinga, Pragyan Ojha, Jalaj Saxena and Jasprit Bumrah took one wicket each for Mumbai.
