Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene felt they were always in contention to qualify for the IPL Playoffs after the great run of form they had while winning five matches in a row.
“Obviously, there was a push back and we had to wait for other results. I think we were always in contention especially after the run we had. It’s good to start the tournament and play some good cricket. The guys have been waiting and training for this. It’s been pretty good, so take one game at a time and see what we need to do.”
Jayawardene also felt it was good for his team to have their fate in their control given they can seal the Playoffs spot with a win against Delhi Capitals.
“It’s in our control and its a great position to be in but I can’t predict and tell what will happen. The message from me to the boys was to go through the routines and processes the way we’ve planned and the way we have gone about this tournament, I’m very happy with the intensity and the way we have reacted to certain situations. So not thinking ahead, we have got a good week’s preparation, so we’ll see how it goes,” he added.
With a new rule of a one hour of extra time coming into play to make time for rain interruptions, Jayawardene stated it was a good move.
“The weather has been threatening most of the games and it is a decision they have taken collectively. If it helps, it helps. As long as we can get a game because of extension, I think everyone wants to play a game of cricket rather than not play.”
The Sri Lankan was of the opinion that Mumbai Indians have played good cricket to be in this position.
“Like I said earlier, it’s better to have it in our control. We have played good cricket to be in this position and will play our best cricket tomorrow,” he added.
Talking about the team composition going into the final league game, the head coach revealed who will leave and who will join.
“The England boys will leave after the league stages. The South Africans are expected to arrive on May 26th.”
“We will miss two starting XI guys. Mitch is still there. Same for most of the other teams. I haven’t thought that far ahead. Two of them are already here. I am just concentrating on tomorrow’s game.”
Jayawardene felt they have come a long way in the tournament.
“When we were 1-4 after first five matches, we had to win every game. The brand of cricket we are playing is great. Looking at a break of 10 days, still its a game of cricket. To take one ball at a time. 240 balls later we will have a result.”
When attention was brought to Rohit Sharma’s retirement from Test cricket and a stand being named after the MI veteran, Jayawardene said he was happy for the India ODI skipper.
“I was away at home when all this happened. I had a chat with him and he was happy with the decision he has made. It was great for the cricketer he is and I am very happy for him. My focus is on tomorrow’s game,” he added.
