Mumbai Indians batting coach Kieron Pollard admitted his side has struggled to put together complete performances after their six-wicket loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad in a high-scoring encounter.

Despite a stunning unbeaten 123 off 55 balls from Ryan Rickelton powering MI to 243/5, SRH chased it down comfortably in 18.4 overs, riding on aggressive knocks from Travis Head (76) and Heinrich Klaasen (65*).

Reflecting on the defeat, Pollard pointed to MI’s recurring issues in crucial phases. “A long-standing story this season has been not being able to make most of the power plays both with the bat and the ball… and that is where most of the matches were lost,” he said in the post match press conference.

While questions were raised over flat pitches and bowling struggles, Pollard dismissed surface-related excuses. “There is no point in harping on the type of wickets… two teams are going to play on the surface and it all boils down to who plays the better cricket.”

Backing his players despite a difficult run, he added, “We have accepted losses… but we have not accepted defeat. We are still very much in this tournament.”

Pollard also threw his weight behind under-fire bowlers, urging patience. “Sometimes we need to cut some slack… when we do bad, it is always highlighted. But I know the individuals, and they will bounce back.”

Published on Apr 30, 2026