Exclusive: Let the IPL playoffs drama begin, writes Ramiz Raja

There is this dismissive attitude shaped on the back of sheer talent that sets Mumbai Indians apart

Mumbai Indians are unflappable. Continuing absence of skipper Rohit Sharma didn’t leave the dressing room jittering. Blinkers on, they simply followed the process. A team for all conditions and pairing of players for all situations are the reasons for reaching the apex of power. There is this dismissive attitude shaped on the back of sheer talent that sets them apart. Ishan Kishan --from bench to bravado -- is a classic example of that! 9/10

The Royal Challengers Bangalore are always given a red-carpet treatment at the IPL. After all they have the two superstars in their cast. But it’s time now for the team to hold the mirror up to itself with unflinching honesty and admit that it’s a game of 11 and not two! The bowling this year is markedly better which has contributed to their playoff entry. However, the fact remains that Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers will have to tee off in uninhibited fashion if RCB are to land the coveted trophy. 7/10

The Delhi Capitals as a team is a template of how future IPL teams should be: youth and talent combined with easy expressions! It seems a side that has truly rediscovered itself. Ricky Ponting has encouraged them to think for themselves and is truly the wind beneath their wings. The scene stealers have been the opening ball pairing of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje and captain Shreyas Iyer. 8/10

What a ride to the playoffs for the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Down one minute and up the next, SRH have been irrepressible. They won matches when it mattered and won many a heart by giving it all. Peaking at the right time, oppositions will fear their form and Wriddhiman Saha. He was the proverbial rabbit out of a hat that eventually made the difference. It takes a special effort to win continuously under pressure which they did with aplomb. One for all and all for one, the merry musketeers are marching on! 8/10

• IPL 2024