Preview: Pune v Mumbai, 58th Match

When they met for the first time in this edition, one expected the 'Maharashtra derby' would be an exciting and interesting battle. Instead, it turned out to be an one-sided affair in which Mumbai easily triumphed over their same state rivals. Since then, both teams have come a long way. While Mumbai's journey has been pleasant with great wins and a few scattered defeats; Pune have been on a path of self destruction hitting on a massive losing streak. With the tournament nearing an end and Mumbai sitting comfortably at the top, Pune have an uphill task ahead to upset the stronger team.Pune Languishing at the bottom of the points table, Pune have nothing to play for except their pride. They seem like a bunch of talented but uncoordinated players trying desperately to reverse the tide. All they will be hoping to do is upset some big teams in their remaining games and salvage lost dignity.In form player: Robin Uthappa - In a team with abundant batting problems where most performances have been one-game wonders, Uthappa has emerged as a consistent performer. He has done well to provide Pune a stable beginning in most of their matches. Sadly, however, lack of support from other batsmen have rendered his contribution Hit: Bhuvneshwar Kumar - One of India's newest finds, Bhuvneshwar is an asset for every team he plays. Although Pune's batting has been very poor, they have found unexpected strength in their bowling line-up. Bhuvneshwar with his calm disposition has been a gem for Pune performing to the best of his ability in most games, albeit in a losing cause. He did quite well in the previous match too, picking up 3 wickets for 25 runs and restricting Kolkata to a modest total.Miss: Yuvraj Singh - Ex-captain and star player Yuvraj Singh was expected to make it big in this series but has failed to get going so far. It has cost Pune dearly as they find themselves reeling at the bottom. With plenty of single figure scores, Yuvraj has looked off-colour and unsure for most part. It would be wonderful if he clicks and gives his fans at least something to cheer about as Pune play for honour and pride.Last three matches: Lost to Kolkata by 46 runs, Lost to Rajasthan by 5 wickets, Lost to Bangalore by 17 runsMumbaiBoasting of a strong batting line-up and a fierce bowling attack, Mumbai is one of the most formidable teams in the tournament. Apart from a few hiccups, their campaign has been going pretty strong. They have been unbeatable at home and will hope to continue their winning run even at other venues.In form player: Dwayne Smith - Trying several opening combinations in each edition of the tournament has been the usual Mumbai ploy to make something click. With Dwayne Smith, they have found a dependable opener who has come to their rescue on more than one occasion. He has given them decent starts and the team will hope he continues his current form to carry them comfortably to the playoffs. Hit: Sachin Tendulkar - For days now, Sachin Tendulkar had been facing harsh criticism over his lack of form. He, however, put all the unpleasant talk to rest with a blazing 48 in the previous match. Partnering with Dwayne Smith at the top, Sachin took the role of an aggressive opener and kept the scoreboard ticking. In one Ryan McLaren over, Sachin hit 5 consecutive fours that reflected the brilliance of this little master and brought back memories of a younger Sachin. He also won the Man of the match for that game as the start provided by him helped Mumbai post a total of 170.Miss: Kieron Pollard - Pollard has been an integral part of Mumbai's famed and star-studded batting line-up. However, this has been a mild year for him with only a few good scores to boast about. He has come good in some matches with quick-fire runs but for most of the part, has been ineffective. He will really need to buckle up and get back to his old ways in case the top order fails. Last three matches: Won against by Kolkata by 65 runs, Won against Chennai by 60 runs, Lost to Hyderabad by 7 wicketsHead to Head: 5 matches; Mumbai - 4, Pune - 1 Quotes: Sachin Tendulkar talks about his love for the game - It is not one-way traffic where I give advice and one just keeps on absorbing it. I have learnt a lot from the other guys. The more we discuss, the more I can learn. The passion for the game is still there and I enjoy myself out on the field.CB Pick: Mumbai - There is no doubt that Mumbai is the stronger one out of these two teams and they would be keen to firmly secure their place in the top 4 and improve their 'away' record.