IPL 2015, Qualifier 1, MI vs CSK: Players to watch out for

New Delhi: After 56 league matches, the Indian Premier League 2015 is in its home stretch with Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium all set to hos the Qualifier 1. As the formidable Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on a resurgent Mumbai Indians (MI) side, a high-quality cricket match can be anticipated by fans.

CSK sailed through their league games, topping the table with 18 points from 14 matches. Braving their poor start to the season, MI's late surge powered them to 2nd on the table with 16 points from 14 matches.

There is nothing to separate between the two sides on the basis of their head-to-head record which stands at 10 wins apiece. MI has dominated this encounter at the Wankhede, winning 4 of the 6 matches.

When the two sides met earlier in the season, CSK registered a thumping six-wicket win at MI's fortress.

As the two IPL heavyweights collide with a spot in the final up for grabs, we pick a player from each side who could decide the fate of this high-profile match.

Dwayne Bravo (CSK)

Dwayne Bravo has been a vital cog in CSK's wheel this season. The all-rounder leads the wicket-taker's list with 20 scalps and has done a commendable job for his captain with the ball. However, the West Indian is yet to fire with the bat for the yellow brigade. Bravo has score 166 runs with 1 fifty in 14 matches at an average of 27.66 and strike rate of 131.74. The 32-year-old will have to bring all of his Caribbean swagger into play as CSK will expect a big performance from him, especially after the departure of Brendon McCullum.

Kieron Pollard (MI)

Kieron Pollard has been MI's star performer this season. The big West Indian has played his role in the side to perfection – scoring runs and doing a decent job. The all-rounder has scored 342 runs with 2 fifties in 14 matches at an average of 38 and a strike rate of 154.75. Not just that, Pollard has also picked up 3 wickets. The Trinidad lad is MI's main weapon especially when the run rate climbs or big hits needed. Against CSK, the home side will expect Kieron Pollard to be at his explosive best.

Key stats

The average first innings total this season at the Wankhede Stadium is 181.

CSK have won 7 out of 9 matches in this edition after batting first.