Two losses to start with, then three back-to-back wins, and now again two consecutive defeats — it is difficult to understand when Mumbai Indians hit form and when they run out of it.

Mumbai will certainly not have momentum on their side when they host Rajasthan Royals on Sunday. Rajasthan have been one of the best teams in IPL 2023. But this was a good time to tame them as they have lost two of their last three matches.

However, it’s doubtful if the Mumbai bowlers can rein in Rajasthan’s powerful batting line-up, particularly because they have leaked 96 runs in the last five overs and 70 runs in the last four overs in their respective last two matches.

Mumbai’s batters have mended their ways and have been doing better. But their bowlers haven’t been able to complement the batters and that has led to their inconsistency. It is unclear if Jofra Archer will be playing on Sunday, but if Mumbai Indians ever needed him, it’s now.

Rajasthan will simply hope to carry on the good work that saw them beat Chennai Super Kings comprehensively in their last game. With batters like Yashasvi Jaiswal in prime form and the spinners excelling, they have little to worry.

Today’s match

■ Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals, 7.30pm, Wankhede, live on Star Sports & Jio Cinema