Indian Premier League, Match 9: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Lions – Players to watch out for

Both the skippers and the likes of Bravo, McCullum, Guptill are likely to scorch Wankhede today.

Mumbai: Ahead of defending champions Mumbai Indians match-up against top-toppers Gujarat Lions, lets have a look at the five players who are likely to take the Wankhede Stadium by storm today.

Rohit Sharma: The skipper is on the song. After yet another Eden Gardens essay against Kolkata Knight Riders on Wednesday, Rohit Sharma will enter the match confident and boisterous. And the right-handed opener gets act together again, it will be advantage Mumbai.

Martin Guptill: One of the biggest talking points at players' auction in February was the cold shoulder given to Martin Guptill. The New Zealand opener is regarded the heir apparent to now retired Brendon McCullum not by nationality and position, but by his sheer brutality up the order. He may or may not play today. But if Guptill makes his IPL debut today, it will surely become a momentous moment.

Keiron Pollard: The big hitting West Indian is out of form, after recuperating from an injury, which forced the all-rounder out of the recently concluded ICC World Twenty20 in India. Expect the maverick to come to party today. Because, he takes just a single delivery to find form. A huge six, or a wicket, that's all he needs.

Dwayne Bravo: Another West Indian all-rounder, but with lot more abilities with the ball. His deadly yorkers, and the ability to contain best of the batsmen is well documented. Combined that with his batting prowess, and we have the 'Champion'. Cricket will have dance and song routines as long as the likes of Bravo is there.

Brendon McCullum: He is retired. But the right-handed batsman is still one of the best batsmen, and fittest fielders around. Gujarat Lions will need the experience openers to play a pivotal innings to give them a solid performance. Don't be surprise if overshadows those who are still active in world cricket.