'The team environment is excellent' - Akash Madhwal after MI's defeat to RR

Mumbai Indians' (MI) bowler Akash Madhwal opened up about the overall atmosphere in the team following their six-wicket loss over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Mumbai on April 1, marking their third consecutive defeat in the ongoing IPL 2024. After being asked to bat first, MI could score a mere total of 125. Despite losing the game, Madhwal impressed with the ball, claiming a three-wicket haul. 

Post-match, Madhwal spoke about the backing he received from the MI teammates. He also stated that they will make a stronger comeback in the forthcoming games.

"The team environment is excellent. Both (Rohit and Hardik) are supportive, and I spoke to Hardik and Rohit in the practice match. (Jasprit) Bumrah bhai was also there. We should do better in the coming games," Madhwal was quoted as saying by MI's official website.

Also read: IPL 2024: MI vs RR Match 14 Highlights: Unmissable video recap, turning points, match analysis, stats, and more

Madhwal was benched during MI's first two games against Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad. When asked about his exclusion from the lineup, the 30-year-old added that he believed the team had selected the best mix in both games. 

"The combinations for the first two games were good in their own right, as world-class bowlers constantly compete for a place in the team," he added.

Also read: IPL 2024: Stats Review: Chahal's 20th three-for, Rohit's 17th duck and other stats from MI vs RR

The right-arm bowler also spoke about their plan during the innings break following a dismal performance with the bat, stating they had discussed taking wickets quickly.

"Even in the strategic timeout, we discussed sticking to the plan and taking 2-3 wickets to gain the upper hand. The way the wicket was, we had to get the basics right. We had to bowl wicket-to-wicket. What we had planned, all of our bowlers followed it. We had planned to get the basics right and bowl wicket-to-wicket because the pitch also helped fast bowlers," he said further.