One of the most successful franchises in IPL history, the Mumbai Indians (MI), endured a forgettable season in 2024. Finishing at the bottom of the table with only four wins out of 14 matches, MI struggled to find consistency and cohesion throughout the tournament.
In a bold move, Hardik Pandya was appointed captain, succeeding Rohit Sharma, who had led MI to five titles over the last decade. Despite some individual brilliance from players like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma, the team faltered under pressure and failed to deliver as a unit.
Reports suggest that this might be Rohit Sharma’s final season with MI, prompting the management to build a new core for the future. With the mega auction for IPL 2025 approaching, let’s look at the five players MI must retain to turn their fortunes around.
1. Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah is undoubtedly the first player MI should retain. Widely regarded as the best all-format bowler in the world, Bumrah demonstrated his exceptional skills by claiming 20 wickets in the 2024 season. Despite MI’s poor performance overall, Bumrah’s brilliance shone through, underlining his importance to the team. His versatility with the ball and leadership potential make him indispensable.
2. Hardik Pandya
Despite a disappointing season, Hardik Pandya remains one of the few IPL-winning captains. The transition to his leadership wasn’t seamless, but the MI management is likely to give him more time to settle into the role. Hardik’s all-round abilities and past successes make him a crucial figure as MI aims to rebuild.
3. Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav, the No. 1 T20I batter, is another key player MI cannot afford to lose. Although injuries and inconsistency marred his season, his explosive batting potential was evident in his three half-centuries and a stunning century against Sunrisers Hyderabad. His ability to change games single-handedly ensures his spot in MI’s plans.
4. Tilak Varma
Young and promising, Tilak Varma showcased his talent by scoring 416 runs in 13 matches under immense pressure. His adaptability and composure in various match situations highlight his potential to be a future star for MI. Retaining him would secure a solid middle-order presence for years to come.
5. Gerald Coetzee
One of the bright spots in MI’s tough season was the emergence of Gerald Coetzee. His pace and knack for taking crucial wickets impressed everyone, making him a valuable asset. Despite concerns over his economy rate, Coetzee’s 13 wickets in 10 matches demonstrate his potential to be a long-term contributor for MI.
As MI looks to bounce back from a challenging season, these five players could form the backbone of a revitalized squad. With the mega auction on the horizon, the decisions made now will be crucial in shaping the future of the Mumbai Indians.
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