IPL 2025: Top 3 batters to watch out for in MI vs KKR clash

The eighteenth edition of the Indian Premier League will get its first east versus west clash when Mumbai Indians take on Kolkata Knight Riders in match 12  at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Both teams will look to win the critical clash as the tournament heads into April. Mumbai Indians currently sit at the eighth position having lost their opening encounter to Chennai Super Kings. KKR, on the other side, placed in the sixth position, having won and lost one game a piece. Mumbai and Kolkata have clashed against each other on 34 previous occasions. Mumbai holds the bragging rights in this rivalry with 23 victories under their belt compared to Kolkata’s 11. Since the game is going to be hosted at Wankhede, which historically has been a batter’s paradise, both the teams will hope their batsmen rise to the occasion and help their team cross the line.

Here is the list of three batters to watch out for in this much-heated contest

3. Quinton De Kock

The stylish left-handed former South African international is back in form. He scored an unbeaten 97 runs in the chase against Rajasthan Royals and helped Kolkata lodge their first win of the season. Wankhede’s wicket, which is known to provide balanced speed and bounce, is sure to assist the South African who loves to face fast bowlers. Mumbai’s fast bowling is suffering from the absence of their spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah, and De Kock may pounce on this opportunity come March 31st.

2. Rohit Sharma

The former captain of Mumbai Indians is always a threat when any team visits the Wankhede. The Indian skipper loves to face Kolkata Knight Riders as evident from his records and exploits against them. Rohit Sharma averages 40 runs an inning against KKR. To add to it he has also scored 6 half-centuries and a ton against the three-time IPL winners. Though the form is not on Rohit’s side, it only takes an innings and Rohit would love to deliver it against KKR.

1. Ajinkya Rahane

The Captain of KKR is no stranger to Mumbai; rather, he is their former domestic skipper. Rahane knowledge about Wankhede’s wicket and his current form makes him the batter to watch out for. Ajinkya Rahane has taken on the role of an aggressor this season and is in fine form having scored a half-century in his maiden colours for KKR.