IPL 2019: Mumbai Indians' strongest XI for their match against Delhi Capitals

IPL 2019 is just around a week away, and the anticipation for the tournament is building. This year's IPL promises to be just like the previous seasons - a boisterous celebration of cricket.

Mumbai Indians will play Delhi Capitals on the 24th of March at the Wankhede stadium. MI come into this year's tournament after finishing a disappointing 5th in the points table last year.

This year, their team looks well balanced and they have great options in almost every department. Quinton de Kock was a brilliant purchase by MI, and he along with Rohit Sharma can form the best opening pair this year. Rohit will be the captain of the team, as always.

MI have a plethora of hitters like Ben Cutting, Kieron Pollard, Hardik Pandya, etc. Their bowling department also looks potent with the likes of Jason Behendroff, Mayank Markande, etc.

Without further ado, let's look at the strongest XI the Mumbai Indians can play against Delhi Capitals:

#1 Top Order

Rohit Sharma

Mumbai Indians have a solid top order with the likes of Even Lewis, De Kock and Rohit to choose from in the opening slots. The openers according to me would be Rohit and De Kock.

There is little doubt that Rohit and De Kock are two of the best opening batsmen going around in world cricket at the moment. This would be a perfect pair as De Kock could provide fast starts and give Rohit time to settle; Rohit always needs two to three overs to get a grip over the wicket.

This opeing pair has the potential to be the best in the IPL this year.

In at number 3 is Ishan Kishan, who will also be the wicketkeeper of the team. Kishan blew hot and cold in last year's IPL, but he showed his hitting power in some matches. Rohit would be hoping that Ishan can be more consistent at number 3 this year.

#2 Middle Order

Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya

Mumbai Indians' middle order looks very solid with many options to choose from. In at number 4 will be Suryakumar Yadav, who had a brilliant IPL last season. He opened for MI last year, but this time he may play in his more natural position.

In at 5 will be Kieron Pollard. The West Indian has seen his form dip over the last couple of years, but he still remains integral to MI. As long as he is at the crease, MI are still in the game; Pollard is a match-winner and he simply has to play.

In at 6 will be Hardik Pandya. The Indian all- rounder has been brilliant for MI over the years and he would be looking to continue his good form in IPL. His 3-4 overs and hard hitting abilities are important to the team.

In at number 7 is Krunal Pandya. The Pandya brothers are absolutely vital for skipper Rohit. Krunal just like his brother can bowl 3-4 overs and has that hard-hitting ability. Both Hardik and Krunal are brilliant in the field as well.

#3 Bowlers

Jasprit Bumrah - the best death bowler in the world

MI have great bowling options up their sleeve, with every kind of bowler at their disposal. In at number 8 will be Jason Behendroff. The Australian has enjoyed a brilliant year with the international team, and his left arm seaming deliveries will add a different dimension to the attack.

In at number 9 will be Mayank Markande. The young leggie was a revelation in last year's IPL and he will be looking to continue his good work. Markande has all the potential to be the leading wicket taker in this year's IPL.

In at number 10 will be Jasprit Bumrah. The most obvious pick in the bowling department is this guy. He is the best death bowler in the world right now and will be looking to continue enhancing his reputation. But with the World Cup scheduled for later this year, Bumrah might be rested for a couple of group stage matches.

In at number 11 will be Adam Milne. The lanky New Zealander adds another unique dimension to this MI attack. His pace can be useful at the Wankhede, as it always has something for the bowlers who bend their backs.