Mumbai crush Royal Challengers Bangalore in style

They backed each other to the core. The middle order batsmen did what was expected of them, even making up for Sachin Tendulkar's rare failure. The fielders backed their bowlers, taking every catch that was offered to them. Their bowlers bowled to a plan, luring the RCB batters to their doom.

Tendulkar was hell-bent on continuing the winning streak even in a game which did not matter. "We hope to continue this form into the rest of the IPl," said Tendulkar, who tops the run aggregate in the tournament with 561 runs.

Completely outplayed

Anil Kumble was gracious in defeat, crediting Mumbai Indians for their all-round performance. "We were outplayed in all the three departments of the game," said Kumble.

Analyzing his side's demoralising defeat, Kumble said: "We started off well in the first six overs. Then, we dropped a few catches. That didn't help our case. We could have certainly batted better. We got stuck in the first six overs and just didn't get the momentum. Whatever the batsmen tried went straight into the fielders' hands."

Kumble felt the bomb blasts, which delayed the start of the game by an hour, hampered the preparation of the team. "We were warming-up and we heard a noise. We were told that we need to be careful and were asked to come inside," said Kumble.

Part of life now: Kumble

Were the players aware of the grim situation around the stadium? "Of course, we were aware of it," said Kumble. "Coming from Bangalore, my home city, I had to speak with the players. I felt it was extremely safe, so I didn't have a problem.

"These things are part of our lives now. It can happen outside a stadium or outside your home. You can't say where it's going to happen. They are still investigating. So we need not jump to any conclusions."

Ambati Rayudu said Mumbai Indians were focused on the game and didn't allow the off-field situation to get the better of them.

u00a0"We were aware of it. The security guys asked us to get inside the dressing room. After their briefing, we went back on to the field. We were totally focused on our game."

The former ICL player was glad that he had contributed in his team's win. "It feels good to contribute when the team is winning.

"The key is to never give up. It gives the youngsters great confidence and a positive frame of mind," said Rayudu, who scored 46 coming in at No 3.

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