The question asks to choose the most suitable word to fill in blank number 6 in the provided passage about cricket. The specific sentence is:

"Instead, it was the established behemoths, former champion Mumbai Indians and defending champion Chennai Super Kings, that ate humble pie and ___(6)___ the surprise factor in sport."

Understanding the Context for Blank 6

To correctly fill in the blank, we need to understand the context of the sentence and the meaning of the options provided. The passage discusses the performance of various cricket teams. The sentence focuses on two highly successful teams, Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, referred to as "established behemoths." The idiom "ate humble pie" means they experienced disappointment or humiliation, likely due to poor performance or unexpected losses.

The phrase "the surprise factor in sport" refers to unexpected outcomes, where less favored teams might win or favorites might lose.

Analyzing the Options for Blank 6

Let's examine each option to see how it fits the context:

• Decorated: This means to honor or praise someone. Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings were not honored for the surprise factor; their performance led to them being humbled.
• Exonerated: This means to be freed from blame or accusation. The teams were not being blamed for the surprise factor in a way that they needed to be exonerated.
• Reiterated: This means to say or do something again or repeatedly. When established teams like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings fail ("ate humble pie"), they, in a way, contribute to or emphasize the occurrence of unexpected results. Their failure reinforces the "surprise factor" in the sport, meaning they repeat the pattern of upsets happening. This fits the context as their underperformance highlighted that surprises are indeed part of the game.
• Concentrated: This means to focus attention or efforts. The teams did not necessarily focus their efforts on the surprise factor itself.
• Operated: This means to function or work. While teams operate, this word doesn't specifically fit the meaning of how their performance affected the "surprise factor."

Rationale for the Correct Choice

The most appropriate word is Reiterated. The failure of powerhouse teams like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings serves to underscore and repeat the element of unpredictability in sports. By not performing as expected, they became part of the narrative that highlights the "surprise factor," proving that even dominant teams can face setbacks, thus reiterating the unpredictable nature of the league.