It’s Zaheer Khan vs Sachin Tendulkar in Bangalore

It will be a clash between two players who were instrumental in India’s recent World Cup victory when Mumbai Indians (MI) face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) here on Tuesday.

For the first time since 2007, Zaheer Khan will be bowling to Sachin Tendulkar. It’s certainly the battle which the country will be waiting to see with bated breath. Zaheer, who was with MI in the last two seasons, was not retained by his old team and subsequently bought by RCB in players’ auction. For him, it will also be a payback time to his old franchisee. Besides, he also has a chance to pick up the most prized wicket in world cricket.

Setting aside the battle of individuals, this is also an important match for the teams. The winners will take an early lead in the tournament as both have won their first matches. Having retained the core group of their previous team, MI look to have a slight edge over the hosts. RCB went for an overhaul and have a bunch of new players.

The wicket looks full of runs and the bowlers will hold the key to the final outcome of the match. MI have a formidable attack led by Lasith Malinga and Harbhajan Singh. RCB depend too much on Zaheer and Daniel Vettori. 

While all eyes will be on Tendulkar, who had scored a brilliant century at the same ground against England in the World Cup, it could be the first real test for the MI batsmen, who had an easy outing in Delhi. Having successfully chased down a stiff target in Kochi, the RCB batsmen will be high on confidence and will certainly look to carry the momentum. MI are most likely to go in with the same side that played against Delhi, the hosts could make one or two changes.