Monday, 23 December 2024
Monday, 23 December 2024
The IPL 2025 mega auction, scheduled for November 24-25 in Jeddah, features 574 players vying for 204 slots across teams. The auction promises excitement as franchises revamp their line-ups for the upcoming season.
Five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have retained stalwarts like Jasprit Bumrah and Rohit Sharma and could focus on experienced performers and young talents to maintain their dominance to plug gaps in their roster.
Here are five key players MI may target:
Trent Boult
The seasoned Kiwi pacer, Trent Boult, is no stranger to MI’s dugout. A vital part in their 2020 title-winning campaign, Boult’s ability to swing the ball in the powerplay remains unmatched. After an impressive stint with Rajasthan Royals, where he delivered consistent match-winning performances, Boult could once again don the MI jersey. With a young pace attack, his experience and knack for delivering in high-pressure situations make him an ideal addition.
Yuzvendra Chahal
Mumbai’s spin department looks thin and makes Yuzvendra Chahal a prime target for the franchise. The Indian leg-spinner, who holds the record for the most IPL wickets by an Indian bowler, is a proven match-winner. Chahal’s Purple Cap-winning performance in 2022 with Rajasthan Royals underlines his T20 skills. Adding him would not only strengthen MI’s spin arsenal but also give them a lethal weapon on spin-friendly pitches.
Ishan Kishan
Mumbai Indians may look to bring back Ishan Kishan, a player who has been integral to their success in recent years. The wicketkeeper-batter could stabilise the top order while providing firepower during the powerplay. Having been released in the past and bought back, MI might repeat the strategy, securing Kishan’s services to ensure consistency at the top.
Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar’s all-round abilities could ignite a bidding war, but MI’s need for a versatile all-rounder might see them go all out for him. With Hardik Pandya being their only retained all-rounder, Sundar could provide balance to the side. His ability to deliver economical spells and contribute with the bat in the lower order makes him a valuable prospect. MI’s deep pockets could help them outbid rivals like Chennai Super Kings for Sundar.
Nehal Wadhera (via RTM card)
Nehal Wadhera, the promising left-handed batter, showed glimpses of brilliance during IPL 2023. Known for his composure against spin and adaptability against pace, Wadhera could fill a crucial middle-order role. MI might utilise the Right to Match (RTM) card to secure the 24-year-old, viewing him as a long-term investment who complements their batting line-up.
With a mix of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters, Mumbai Indians could emerge the strongest team from the auction. The question remains: will they stick to their signature strategy or surprise everyone with unexpected buys?
