IPL 2018: Each franchise's key battles for a spot in the starting XI

Mumbai Indians

JP Duminy is back with the Mumbai Indians this season

JP Duminy vs. Ben Cutting vs. Mustafizur Rahman

Three out of four foreign slots for the Mumbai Indians are sure to be occupied by Evin Lewis, Kieron Pollard and Pat Cummins. This leaves just one foreigner slot open and the Mumbai Indians have three terrific options to chose from.

It looks like they will take a 'horses for courses' approach and select a player based on the conditions of play. JP Duminy is the favourite to make the starting eleven owing to a variety of reasons. He is an IPL veteran and has showcased his ability with the bat on numerous occasions. Another major reason for him finding a spot in the team would be his spinning abilities. The Mumbai Indians have a lack of options in the spinning department and JP Duminy can be picked to fill that role.

Another excellent all-rounder who will help the Mumbai Indians in their title defence is the IPL 2016 final Man of the Match, Ben Cutting. Cutting is a very explosive batsman in the middle order and has a knack of picking up wickets with his fast-medium bowling.

The third option was granted the laurel of being the Emerging player of the 2016 season. Mustafizur Rahman is a southpaw speedster who has made the news for his fine bowling on many an occasion. Considering that the Mumbai Indians have plenty of batting options, it might make sense for them to pick Rahman as their fourth foreigner in order to bolster their bowling attack. Bumrah, Cummins and Rahman could form a dream bowling attack for the Mumbai Indians.