MI vs KKR free cricket betting preview & top tips – IPL 2025

MI v KKR best bets

Mumbai Indians v Kolkata Knight Riders match preview

The Wankhede Stadium hosts its first IPL 2025 clash on Tuesday (AEDT) as the struggling Mumbai Indians (MI) face the confident Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Match 12 of the season.

MI are desperately searching for form after back-to-back defeats, while KKR have bounced back impressively and will be eyeing another win to climb up the table.

Mumbai’s start to this season has been far from ideal. They’ve suffered two defeats in a row – first against Chennai Super Kings and then Gujarat Titans – and currently sit near the bottom of the table. Their batting, usually a strength at Wankhede, has looked flat, with no player yet making a big impact. Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma have shown glimpses of form, but the rest of the lineup has failed to fire.

There are also growing concerns about Mumbai’s bowling unit, which has leaked runs and failed to deliver in the death overs. The experienced Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar will be key on a surface that generally offers pace and bounce, but they’ll need support from their less experienced colleagues.

KKR, meanwhile, recovered from a heavy defeat in their opener to deliver a clinical win over Rajasthan Royals. Quinton de Kock was sensational at the top of the order, smashing 97 runs and helping chase down the target with ease. The team looks more balanced now, with a strong top order, the ever-dangerous Andre Russell in the middle, and variety in their bowling attack.

This fixture has historically been dominated by MI, who lead the head-to-head record 23-11. But KKR did the double over them last season and arrive with momentum.

Mumbai Indians v Kolkata Knight Riders predictions

Mumbai’s form is concerning, and with their key batters and bowlers underperforming, confidence in the camp seems low. KKR, by contrast, looked ruthless in their last outing and have the weapons to exploit Mumbai’s weaknesses. On current form, backing Kolkata to win offers great value at +109 with BetOnline.

In a misfiring MI top order, Tilak Varma has been the most consistent performer. With 70 runs in two games and a good record at the Wankhede, he looks like Mumbai’s best chance of anchoring the innings. Expect him to play a key role and cross 30 for the third time in as many games.

Trent Boult knows how to use the bounce and swing that Wankhede offers early in the innings. With KKR’s left-heavy batting order, Boult will be a major threat, especially with the new ball. He’s likely to pick up key wickets and lead the MI bowling charge. +280 with top sports bookmakers for the Kiwi left-armer to take the most wickets for MI looks a great play.

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