In 2014, Mumbai lost all their five games of the opening UAE leg of the tournament before winning seven of nine remaining matches to reach the playoffs.
A similar script followed 12 months later, as they lost five of their first six matches. They bounced back by winning the next five on the trot before going on to clinch the title.
“The focus within the team is to get to a good start,” Sharma said.
“Over the last couple of years we did not start well and we don’t want to do that this year.
“It’s important to get some wins on board at the start and carry that momentum towards the next game so that we are well placed. We want to start on a high note.”
Sharma, 28, is keen to open the innings in the first few games and then finalise his batting slot, which is usually at No3.
“I would preferably open the innings. I would like to start the innings and see after four-five games. It’s all about getting the right balance in the team. If that means coming down the order I will do so,” he added.
Although Mumbai face a new team in Rising Pune Supergiants in Saturday’s opener, the faces of the opposition are familiar and quite formidable too.
Sharma is expecting a tough contest as he knows Pune captain and one of the most successful leaders in the short format, MS Dhoni will also be aiming to “start on a winning note”.
Mumbai are likely to miss pace spearhead Lasith Malinga as he’s yet to recover from a knee injury.
