The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has already sparked its first controversy, with the spotlight firmly on home advantage and pitch conditions. Questions are being raised about who should have the final say in preparing the playing surface – the franchises or the local state associations that own the stadiums.
The debate intensified after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) expressed displeasure over the pitch at Eden Gardens during their opening match, followed by Gujarat Titans opting for a black-soil surface to counter Mumbai Indians (MI) in their recent clash. As MI prepare to host KKR at Wankhede Stadium on Monday, the conversation around pitch influence remains front and centre.
Pandit Weighs in on the Home Advantage Debate
KKR’s head coach, Chandrakant Pandit, commented on the ongoing issue, subtly suggesting that some teams enjoy a greater advantage.
More than anything, I'm focused on how well our team played in the last game. Unfortunately, Mumbai Indians haven't been performing at that level, which gives us another advantage to put pressure on them. However, since the game is in Mumbai, we need to adapt quickly to the conditions here, and that's what we've been planning for. I'm confident we'll be able to do that.
While Pandit refrained from directly criticising the system, he hinted at the desire for franchises to have more influence over pitch preparations.
At the moment, I am definitely not thinking about what has to be done or what is in whose control. But let us focus on tomorrow's game, which is very crucial for us. Of course, as a team management, as a coach, as a captain, we expect something to be provided. Who will not be happy about having a favourable pitch? It’s a simple answer.
Familiar Territory for Pandit and Rahane
While the debate continues, Pandit and his captain Ajinkya Rahane will find themselves on familiar ground at the Wankhede. Both have extensive experience representing Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy, with Pandit coaching them to two domestic titles.
MI Banking on Fan Support to Revive Campaign
Mumbai Indians, however, will rely on the unwavering support of their fans in their first home game of the season. After two back-to-back losses, they are desperate for a turnaround.
Hardik Pandya’s men fell to Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans, with their batting lineup failing to fire. Rohit Sharma and new recruit Will Jacks are under pressure to deliver at the top, while Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma will be key in the middle order.
The absence of Jasprit Bumrah remains a significant blow to MI’s bowling attack, with Trent Boult leading the charge alongside spinner Mitchell Santner.
KKR Look to Build Momentum
On the other hand, KKR have bounced back from their opening-day defeat with a convincing win over Rajasthan Royals. Quinton de Kock’s unbeaten 97 was the highlight of that game, and his return to form alongside Sunil Narine’s comeback will bolster the side.
While Andre Russell’s all-round abilities remain a constant threat, KKR also have decisions to make regarding Moeen Ali’s role after his strong bowling display in the previous match.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, MI have dominated this rivalry, winning 23 out of 34 encounters. However, KKR have had the upper hand in recent matches, winning four of the last five meetings.
Probable Playing XIs
Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma, Will Jacks, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Robin Minz, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Satyanarayana Raju, Trent Boult.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Quinton De Kock, Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Spencer Johnson, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy.
