Have Delhi Capitals run out of steam?

Just under two weeks ago, Delhi Capitals were flying high having beaten Chennai Super Kings for the second time in IPL 2020. This was the team that they had lost to thrice last season, including in the qualifier which knocked them out of the tournament. For this group, the victory thus held special significance and was duly celebrated unlike other wins in the tournament. At that point, they were well on course for a spot in the final four. Or so it seemed.

But something changed post that win, which has seen the team lose steam and go on to lose three games on the trot. That they had a splendid run until then allows them to still be alive and in a good position to make it to the play-offs. But will they be able to ensure a top-two spot now? That answer is contained within the answers for a few other questions that will rankle the management.

Will Rishabh Pant find the right balance between attack and defence? Is Ajinkya Rahane still the right choice to partner Shikhar Dhawan in place of Prithvi Shaw? Is the spirited Tushar Deshpande worth persisting with despite not delivering on the promise? Can R Ashwin and Kagiso Rabada bounce back to lead the attack well again? If these questions get the desired answers for Delhi, they could get back on a roll again towards the business end of the tournament.

Out to try and extend Delhi's quandaries, Mumbai Indians - the only team that has already qualified and in the best position to finish in the top two - will have a great chance to get a psychological advantage against a potential playoff opponent. The only blip to this endeavour could be their own record at the venue. In this season, Mumbai have found it hard to get over the line in Dubai, where they've lost both their games, albeit both being in the Super Over!

When: Saturday, October 31 at 15:30 IST

Where: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

What to expect: All the day games in Dubai this season have been won by the teams chasing.