It was a remarkable season for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League. Put in a “Perform or Perish” situation, the resilient side pulled it off.
The side lost five of its first six games. And then, in a stunning run, the team won nine of its last 10 matches.
“After our start, we played every match as if it was a final. We went into the games with that mind-set. I think we showed a lot of belief. We also played fearless cricket. Every game was like a knock-out match for us,” said former India all-rounder Robin Singh, the batting coach of the triumphant Mumbai Indians team, in a conversation with
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Robin’s association with Mumbai Indians, from 2010, has been a rewarding one. During the period, the side has bagged two IPL and two Champions League titles. “It has been a very satisfying period. I think we have shown a lot of character.”
Talking about the just concluded edition, Robin said, “We peaked at the right time. That’s very important in a long, tiring league. You need to sustain your performances. Be consistent when it matters. Look at Rajasthan Royals. They began so well but then fell away.”
Robin said working with Mumbai Indians chief coach and Australian legend Ricky Ponting “was a wonderful experience.” He said, “Ponting is so used to winning, played in and captained some great Australian sides. He brings with him the culture of winning. That is bound to rub off on the side.”
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The former India player said, “Our goal was winning the tournament, not just making the last four stage.
“Even when we were losing, all we discussed at the meetings was how to win the next game and go on to nail the competition. We thought and played positively.”
Rohit Sharma, Robin believed, was “maturing as captain.” And the starts from openers Lendl Simmons and Parthiv Patel gave the others “the freedom to play their strokes later in the innings.”
While he lauded Rohit’s batsmanship, Robin highlighted Ambati Rayudu’s contribution with the willow.
“He was a silent hero for us. People who come down the order do not get as many balls to face. Their job is harder and cannot be measured in numbers just like those who bowl at the back end of an innings.”
Robin pointed out that the role definition was clear in the team. “Pollard knew he had to attack but he also read situations well.”
Off-spinner Harbhajan Singh’s experience counted for a lot, Robin felt. “His 400-odd Test wickets have to mean something.
“He has seen so much cricket. He bowled well, was slower through the air and flighted. He also bowled the delivery that floated away from the right-hander, this was not the doosra.”
As the tournament progressed, youngsters evolved. “Jagadeesha Suchith (left-arm spinner) has some way to go but his bowling is suited for the shorter format. Hardik Pandya (hard-hitting pace bowling allrounder) was given the licence to play his natural game.”
Of course, toe-crusher Lasith Malinga’s return to form played a huge role in Mumbai Indians’ victory. “Mitchell McClenaghan made his presence felt as well but some of the credit for this should go to the manner Malinga bowled from the other end.”
The modest and sincere Robin played his part too.