An inferior run-rate had robbed Mumbai Indians of a play-offs berth in the last edition of the IPL. After a slow start, they picked up momentum in the middle stages to finish tied on 14 points with Kolkata Knight Riders.

The secret to the five-time champions’ success lies in their core group of players. It remains to be seen if the presence of Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Kieron Pollard and Jasprit Bumrah in their ranks once again helps them excel.

It was no surprise when Mumbai Indians decided not to retain Hardik Pandya, given the all-rounder’s fitness concerns and indifferent form. They have compensated his absence by recruiting Jofra Archer, though the England all-rounder will be available only from 2023 onwards.

Strengths

Rohit’s leadership qualities remain their biggest asset. The cool demeanour with which he goes about marshalling his resources has been reflected in their consistent performances over the years.

With no Quinton de Kock, Rohit is expected to open the batting with Kishan followed by Mr Dependable Surya, known as SKY.

Mumbai Indians’ batting has revolved around SKY, given his ability to keep the scoreboard moving. He has shown steely nerves in pressure situations and that has been his biggest strength.

The 23-year-old Kishan from Jharkhand packs quite an explosive punch with the bat and has played several scintillating innings since joining the side in 2018. He played a stellar role during the title triumph in 2020 scoring 516 runs with a strike rate of 145.76. This time he will also have to perform the No.1 keeper’s role in the team.

Power hitters like Tim David and Dewald Brevis (nicknamed Baby AB) can provide a strong finish besides Pollard, who has to play a big role as a finisher. Pollard’s form in the slog overs could be an important factor in how the franchise performs.

An interesting recruit has been Tilak Varma, who has an impressive domestic record. In the 2021-22 Vijay Hazare Trophy, he scored 180 runs in five matches and took four wickets. The former India U-19 left-handed batsman could be slotted in the middle-order.

In the pace department, Tymal Mills should find himself in the playing XI alongside Bumrah. The England left-arm pacer will face an uphill task since he has to fill in for Trent Boult, who had proved to be lethal in his opening burst and death overs.

Concerns

Mumbai Indians have filled their squad with all-rounders but lack of experience among the domestic players could be a hindrance. Another aspect which could bother them is the absence of a quality spinner. Mayank Markande and Murugan Ashwin are the only recognised leg-spin options and will have to fill in for Rahul Chahar.

But they have been picked on the recommendations of the franchise’s much-acclaimed talent scouts. MI have a reputation of turning rookies into superstars.

Key men: Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Jasprit Bumrah