IPL 2020: Rohit Sharma reveals why MI didn't include Nathan Coulter Nile against CSK

After many delays, the much-awaited IPL 2020 is finally set to kick-off from September 19th in the UAE. Two heavyweights of the league– Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings are set to lock horns with each other in the season opener at Abu Dhabi.

Mumbai Indians, led by Rohit Sharma, will aim to clinch their fourth IPL title this year. On the other hand, CSK will be hoping to defy all odds and put up an impressive show after the departure of their two veterans– Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh.

The wait of millions of fans finally ended when Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni stepped in for the toss of the opening fixture. Chennai Super Kings, after winning the toss, elected to bowl first on a pitch that’s expected to dish out a high-scoring encounter.

Dhoni justified his decision of bowling first by mentioning the dew factor in the evening. He even lauded every member of the CSK contingent for enduring the ‘difficult’ quarantine period, especially after multiple members of their camp tested positive for coronavirus.

Meanwhile, Rohit also mentioned that they would’ve bowled first if they had won the toss. The ‘Hitman’ also revealed the names of four overseas players which would brace the field tonight for the Mumbai franchise. The four players are– Quinton de Kock, Kieron Pollard, Trent Boult and James Pattinson.

It’s a good opportunity for James Pattinson: Rohit Sharma

Most fans were expecting Nathan Coulter Nile to play in the fixture. However, Rohit revealed that the Australian quick still not quite match fit with some niggles.

“Would’ve bowled first as well, gets better under lights. Have been here few weeks, so understand conditions better. Before coming here, we had a camp in Mumbai. Also had quality practice out here in Abu Dhabi. Key here will be to understand conditions. Pitches for the practice matches will be similar to what we’ll get here.

Ready to go. Way we’ve been playing cricket for the last couple of years has been good. All in all we’ve had good preparation. Now all about execution. Four overseas – Quinton, Pollard, Pattinson, Boult. NCN still not quite match fit with some niggles. Good opportunity for Pattinson who’s been bowling well for Australia,” said Rohit after the toss.

Playing XI:

Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Saurabh Tiwary, Krunal Pandya, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, James Pattinson, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah

Chennai Super Kings: Murali Vijay, Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Deepak Chahar, Piyush Chawla, Lungi Ngidi