IPL 2015, Match 7, MI vs KXIP: Players to watch out for

New Delhi: Match 7 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) takes us to the Wankhede stadium, where home team Mumbai Indians (MI) take on Kings XI Punjab (KXIP). With both teams looking to put their first points on the board, sparks are expected to fly in Mumbai.

Rohit Sharma's side was swatted away by defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders in Match 1 at the Eden Gardens. While KXIP were undone by a clinical performance from the Rajasthan Royals in Match 3.

Previous meetings between the duo have been keenly contested and with a head-to-head record of 7-7, Match 7 too will be decided by slim margins.

However, MI will take heart from the fact they, along with KKR, were the only team to beat KXIP last season when the Punjab franchise were in such ominous form.

Knowing MI's formidable record at home, George Bailey and his side will be aware of having to produce a special performance at the Wankhede.

With two of IPL's most exciting and flamboyant teams on collision course, we highlight a key player from each franchise who could have a big say on the final outcome of this match.

Lasith Malinga (MI)

Is it no secret that MI rely heavily on Lasith Malinga. The Sri Lankan's consistent performance over the years in the IPL has been key to fortunes of the Mumbai franchise. Ever since making his debut for MI in 2009, the pacer has never failed to deliver. In 84 matches, Malinga has picked 119 wickets at an average of 17.89 and an economy rate of 6.54. The 31-year-old was recipient of the Purple Cap in 2011 when he scalped 28 wickets. With a deadly yorker and ability to bowl immaculately during the death overs, Malinga will be expected to keep the star-studded batting line-up of KXIP in check.

Glenn Maxwell (KXIP)

Million-dollar baby of IPL 2013, Glenn Maxwell played just 3 matches for MI despite attracting the highest bid that year. The Australian exploded after his acquisition by KXIP, almost redefining T20 batsmanship in IPL 2014. The right-hander was the standout performer last term, having scored 552 runs in 16 matches at an average of 34.50 and an astonishing strike rate of 187.75. The 26-year-old unfurled his complete repertoire hitting 36 sixes, which was the highest in that edition. Against MI, Maxwell will come out swinging hard in a bid to slay his former employers.

Key stats

At the Wankhede, Mumbai Indians have lost just once in 13 outings.

Lasith Malinga has picked up a wicket in each of the 9 matches against KXIP. However, he has finished 4 of those matches with an economy rate of 8 or more.