Deccan Charges has its task cut out

Sachin Tendulkar during his blistering knock against the Chennai Super Kings on Thursday. Photo: Vivek Bendre

The roller-coaster ride continues to nag Deccan Chargers. Quelled by Rajasthan Royals' collective display and Yusuf Pathan's imposing performance with the bat at the Motera on Friday night, Adam Gilchrist's team has to gather its wits and sharpen skills as it prepares to lock horns with Mumbai Indians at the D. Y. Patil Stadium here on Sunday.

The Chargers had to suffer an unfavourable start at the venue in Navi Mumbai, one of its three home grounds for the IPL III season. The delayed arrival into the city because it could not get reservations in day flights from Ahmedabad denied opportunity for a training session, even an optional one, at the venue.

“We will be landing at 10 p.m,” said Ghulam Rajah, a South African engaged as manager by the Chargers.

The Chargers lost to Kolkata Knight Riders in the first match by 11 runs, but hit back quickly at Chennai Super Kings at Chennai and then wrapped up two home matches at Cuttack against Kings XI Punjab and Delhi Daredevils.

Back on road

Three straight wins put the Chargers back on the road to winning ways, but the likes of Shane Warne, Shaun Tait, Adam Voges and Yusuf Pathan turned out to be big stumbling blocks at the Motera and the defending champion was outplayed.

Gilchrist may mull over fielding fast bowler Kemar Roach, bought at $720,000 at the last auction. The Chargers have another option in Dwayne Smith. Mr. Rajah said seamer Ryan Harris will join the team after the completion of the second Test between Australia and New Zealand at Hamilton on March 31, but Scott Styris will not be part of the scheme of things this season.

The Mumbai Indians team — with fours wins in five matches — has been on a roll since beaten hollow by the Royal Challengers, Bangalore. Every aspect of the Mumbai Indians has revolved around Sachin Tendulkar's ability to use the limited bowling resources backed by smart work on the field and his remarkable appetite for runs.

In the last match against Chennai Super Kings, left hander Shikhar Dhawan showed his potential and Kieron Pollard, glimpses of his talent — at backward point and as a batsman.

Mumbai Indians appear to be in full control and would be keen to become the first team to touch double digit points with a victory in its sixth match.