Mumbai Indians wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton said that his focus at the top of the order is on managing threats and making the most of the powerplay in afternoon games. MI, the five-time champions, are taking on Delhi Capitals in their first afternoon game of IPL 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday.
“I think one of the advantages of batting second is that the game kind of dictates it for you. Playing in India is always a different challenge, especially at night, when the ball swings quite a lot. So, you need to be aware of those first 2-3 overs, as you can be dismissed quickly if you're not focused.
“So, it's about managing the key threats as an individual. Then, when the opportunity comes, you need to make the most of it. Today will be a different experience.
“It will be a day game, with conditions that might be a little less swinging, perhaps with more turn. So, it's about managing those conditions and maximizing the powerplay. Sometimes it's easier to bat in the powerplay, while other times it's easier to bat outside of it. So, it's about managing both,” said Rickelton in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters.
On the fine line between intent and recklessness when batting in the powerplay, the left-handed batter, who scored 83 in the opening game against Kolkata Knight Riders, explained, “I shouldn't be allowed to answer this. I'm a South African, so it's all about being aggressive. Not giving yourself a chance and being reckless by trying to hit a big shot within the first couple of balls.
“I would define it as a bit reckless. The conditions always dictate how you should play. The game situation also guides you in how you should play. If you go against what those things are telling you, then maybe it's a bit reckless.
Asked about his experience batting alongside Rohit Sharma, Rickelton said, “The beauty of this team is that we have so many incredible batters, both foreign and local, behind us. So, if Ro and I manage to win the powerplay, it's almost like a free hit.
“But it is almost... we face the balls, understand the wicket, and try to maximize during the middle phase, especially when our matchups come up. You can do that without the fear of getting out. If you can put pressure on the bowlers and get away, that really takes the team to a great position.
“But I think when you know you have such formidable strikers behind you, it almost gives you the license and freedom to really take your matchup down. If you make a mistake in that phase, you're doing it for the right reasons. You're trying to get a hit for the team, and you also have a lot of good experience behind you.”
Rickelton concluded by saying that he used the break well to meet his fellow South African players in the IPL. “It's just the usual stuff on tour. Preparing for the next game and trying to get the body right. I was able to catch up with Stubbo (Stubbs) and Dave (Miller) last night, and we had dinner. So, it's just the usual stuff on tour.”