MI vs RCB Live Score: MI batting coach Kieron Pollard remains upbeat ahead of the match
Mumbai Indians (MI) batting coach Kieron Pollard remains optimistic about the imminent arrival of England pacer Will Jacks ahead of their 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Speaking to the media in the pre-match press conference, Pollard dismissed concerns about Jack’s fitness, stating that the team management had not been informed of any such issues. He also emphasized the depth of MI’s squad, suggesting that the squad is well equipped even in Jack’s temporary absence.
“We’re expecting Wheeljack very soon,” Pollard said. “And as I mentioned, the fitness issues, as far as I know, I don’t know anything about that. We’re a team of over 20. And at this stage, he’s not here. But we will be here soon.”
In backing the Englishman to success upon his return, Pollard highlighted Jack’s ability to contribute across departments.
“And hopefully when he’s here too, his economy will be low, he’ll get wickets, he’ll score runs just for you,” he added.
Pollard also threw his support to Jasprit Bumrah, who faced scrutiny after a quiet match against Rajasthan Royals. He pointed out that the changing nature of T20 cricket increasingly focuses on control rather than just taking wickets.
“When you look at T20 cricket now, the way things are, you can’t really think too much about the wicket. If you watch even the game that’s being played currently, you’ll see that the power play has gone on for over 100 runs. So, again, sometimes the best form of attack is defense as well. And, you know, we don’t look much at the nature of Jasprit Bumrah. He’s a world-class bowler. He’s done that time and again, you know, for India and also for the Indians,” Pollard said. Mumbai, and again, when it’s time to get wickets, if it’s not the case, and it’s economical, we will accept that as well.”
Looking at the competition against RCB, Pollard stressed that every match in the ISL carries equal importance, with a strong focus on securing points rather than focusing on the opponent’s strengths.
“As far as RCB is concerned, for me, I think this is the Indian Premier League. All competitions are exciting. All competitions are ones you look forward to. Because the main thing is two points in play. So for us, we don’t look too much at the opposition. We just try to go out and play as good cricket as we can. Hopefully, in the end, the result, you know, kind of goes our way,” he added.
Pollard also paid tribute to Rohit Sharma, who recently completed 15 years with the franchise, describing it as a rare achievement in modern cricket.
“Yes, Rohit Sharma celebrated 15 years, you know, as a Mumbai Indian player. And that’s an achievement, you know, for him. Or for any individual. Two, being one franchise for 15 years, not many people can say that. Fortunately, I can say that. But he was a great leader for us, you know, over time. He was a great leader of Indian cricket. He was a legend in his own right. And as I told you, I hope that continues for a long time,” Pollard said. “With him in the locker room.”