It’s as big an occasion as can be. There’s just too much for everybody to celebrate here. The IPL is turning 1000-matches-old, and it’s pretty apt that the team who’s won the IPL the most number of times, is squaring off with a team that won the first edition.

Let’s get everything out of the way: Our skipper is celebrating his birthday, Mumbai Indians are celebrating ten years of him being at the helm, and the Wankhede is all set to play the perfect host. Okay, okay, let’s focus on the game, shall we?

We’re into the post-interval zone. It’s time we take control of our script. It’s that phase between the buildup and the climax. And let’s face it: we need our momentum back. We lost it at home against the Punjab Kings, couldn’t quite get it back against the Gujarat Titans, and thus, we are back to reclaim our fortress and get our train back on track.

What: Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals, IPL 2023 Match #42

Where: Our fortress, the cauldron, The Wankhede

When: On the Hitman’s birthday – Sunday, April 30, 2023

What to expect: The perfect Sunday evening. The Royals are coming in with some confidence of being in the top three, and we, are hurting. On a true, flat, bouncy strip, expect some box-office action. Rohit’s birthday special, the unfurling of a massive banner in the North Stand for our skipper, cut-outs leading in through the University Stadium, and a festival of celebration!

What you need to do: STOP whatever you were up to during our last two games. Go back to the earlier routine. The same superstitions. We need every single one of them.

What they said: “He has been great. I used to always enjoy watching Rohit bat, sometimes from behind the stumps as well. I have played a bit of cricket with him and watched him grow into a quality cricketer but also a good leader. It’s going to be nice for him. It’s his birthday as well, so a big moment for him” – Mark Boucher on Rohit Sharma