In the absence of Sachin Tendulkar, after the opening game against defending champions Chennai Super Kings on April 4, Mumbai Indians have used South Africa's Richard Levi at one end to open the innings with different partners -- T Suman, Ambati Rayudu and Davy Jacobs -- but all these make-shift combination have misfired.
"It's not just about the openers. We have 20 overs to bat and we have a deep batting line up. As openers we will play shot, that's the format of the game, first six overs we will try to maximise," said Robin Singh on the eve of the match.
"It will appear a high-risk game to most players. It depends on how we execute and not just about one guy," he added.
The coach also said the players know that they would have to step up their batting. "We have not batted as well as we can. We certainly have to step up when it comes to batting. Everyone is very much aware of that. We just couldn't play good cricket, couldn't chase 129 (against Pune Warriors on April 6). We got out for 92 (against Delhi Daredevils)," said Robin.
Out of five games so far, MI have lost two, significantly both at home, mainly because of batting failures on a turning track against the Warriors and a bouncy pitch against the Daredevils.
"There's no excuse. However badly we play, we should not be getting out for those low scores with the sort of batting line-up we have," insisted Robin.
Robin Singh refuses to blame Mumbai Indians' openers
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