Mumbai Indians are on the verge of completing a remarkable Indian Premier League turnaround under Ricky Ponting after becoming the first team through to the tournament final.
Mumbai, who lost their opening four matches in a disastrous start to the tournament, are now just one win away from an extraordinary form revival following their 25-run win over title favourites Chennai Super Kings in the first qualifying final.
Despite the horror start, champion Australian batsman Ponting, in his debut coaching role, has helped turn Mumbai around - guiding them to second spot on the ladder before Tuesday's upset victory.
After choosing to bat first Mumbai posted 6-187, with Lendl Simmons (65) the high scorer, before bowling Chennai out for 162.
Veteran Australian batsman Michael Hussey opened for Chennai, peeling off 16 runs before being caught by wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel off the bowling of Vinay Kumar.
On Wednesday, Rajasthan Royals, with Australians Shane Watson, Steve Smith and James Faulkner, face the Royal Challengers Bangalore, who boast the trio's Test teammate Mitchell Starc, in a knock-out match for the chance to play Chennai in a qualifier for the final.
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