The much-anticipated return of Hardik Pandya from a one-match ban is expected to inject much-needed balance into the Mumbai Indians’ lineup as they face an equally determined Gujarat Titans on Saturday. Both teams are seeking their first victory in this IPL season after disappointing opening matches.

Mumbai Indians’ perennial opening-game jinx continued with a four-wicket loss to Chennai Super Kings, while Gujarat Titans suffered an 11-run defeat at the hands of Punjab Kings in a high-scoring thriller.

The batting-friendly conditions at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, which witnessed a combined total of 475 runs in the opening game, will be a welcome change for Mumbai’s batsmen after the Chepauk track.

Gujarat Titans’ bowling attack, heavily reliant on Kagiso Rabada and Rashid Khan, will face a stern test against a potent Mumbai batting lineup.