They have lost their first game in 13 consecutive seasons and 14 of 18 overall. The last time they won their opening match was in 2012 against Chennai Super Kings. This pattern has become a talking point every year.
Despite being strong throughout the season, Mumbai have struggled to get off to a good start. Coach Mahila Jayawardene said the team is focused on playing with intensity and not just changing to prepare for the first game.
“I mean it’s a lot different in the room, but there’s no way for us, I don’t think, to prepare any differently. I think we just … if you look at the season I’ve been in, we’ve lost close games. I think I’ve talked to the guys about that — the intensity for that first game, I think that’s all we can control.”
The question is whether Mumbai Indians can finally start with a win this time around.
