2017 IPL Final Betting Tips
We are just one match away from finding out the winner of IPL 2017. Mumbai Indians and Rising Pune Supergiant are not just the finalists; they are also the most consistent performers of this year. The final at Hyderabad on Sunday, May 21st will decide the destination of the glittering trophy.
Road to the final
Mumbai Indians topped the league standings but took the tough route to the finals. They lost in the first qualifier – incidentally to Rising Pune – and then had to defeat Kolkata Knight Riders to enter the finals.
Rising Pune Supergiant finished second in the league although they were one game away from not qualifying altogether. They then defeated Mumbai in the first qualifier to become the first finalist of this edition.
Players to watch
In a side that had many batsmen chipping with contributions, Parthiv Patel has been a silent performer. Often for Mumbai, his runs at the top eases the burden on their middle order. Ditto with the bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Karn Sharma who have been nothing short of brilliant. Performances from these three will have a huge bearing on the fortunes of Mumbai.
The experience of Ajinkya Rahane, MS Dhoni and the astute leadership of Steve Smith makes a difference for Pune. The troika is vital for Pune’s chances and so is Jaydev Unadkat with the ball. Shardul Thakur too has a vital role to play.
Line-ups
Will Mumbai recall Mitchell McCleneghan? It is tempting to get the wicket-taking Kiwi back into the ranks but Johnson may have done enough against Kolkata Knight Riders to keep his place.
With a tricky surface awaiting them at Hyderabad, Smith may think about stocking his batting – in which case Lockie Ferguson may miss out.
Vital Stats
Pune is definitely not a favorite opponent for Mumbai against whom they lost four of the five matches contested so far. This includes three losses this year.
Statistically, team finishing second in the IPL regular season has won six of the seven years since playoffs started. No wonder Pune is grinning!
Picks
If stats decide the winner then it has to be Rising Pune Supergiant. At odds of $1.73 (Ladbrokes), they look a very decent punt to continue their dominance over derby competitors.
TIP: Rising Pune Supergiant to win – $1.73 at Ladbrokes
Parthiv is crucial for Mumbai at the top of the order with his ability to hold the innings together and still score briskly. Odds of $4.20 (Ladbrokes) make him a prudent punt.
TIP: Partiv most runs (Mumbai) – $4.20 at Ladbrokes
TIPS ARE SIMPLY THE AUTHOR’s OPINION. ALWAYS GAMBLE RESPONSIBLY
