Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah. (Source -Twitter/X)
As the mega Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction approaches, all eyes are on the five-time champions Mumbai Indians. MI had a disappointing 2024 season that saw them finish at the bottom of the table. Winning just four out of their 14 games, the franchise had many changes in leadership department and management which did not go in their favor, but will be assured of a major roster change in the upcoming edition.
The franchise which is known for bringing its star power and young talent together, will face a tough task on who to retain. With uncertainty surrounding BCCI’s retention rules and the team’s recent struggles, every choice will become crucial. Let us have a look at three potential players that MI could retain ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.
Here are three players that MI could target ahead of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction:
1. Hardik Pandya
The star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, faced a challenging IPL 2024 season after his return to Mumbai Indians. Following successful stints with Gujarat Titans in the 2022 and 2023 editions, MI brought Pandya back and appointed him captain, replacing the five-time title-winning Rohit Sharma. This decision, likely made looking at the future, stirred controversy among fans and experts.
Throughout the season, the 30-year-old faced immense criticism and was frequently booed. His leadership decisions were heavily scrutinized, affecting both his performance and the team’s results. In 14 matches, he managed to score just 216 runs and pick 11 wickets.
Despite the tough season, the Mumbai-based franchise might be committed to Pandya as a long-term asset. The franchise is expected to retain him for future seasons, seeing him as an integral part of their plans.
Also read: Mumbai Indians make INR 109 crore profit in FY24
2. Suryakumar Yadav
India’s new T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, is likely to be a top retention priority for MI. Currently ranked No. 2 in T20I batting rankings, Yadav has consistently excelled in the shortest format. MI’s investment in Yadav since 2018 has paid off, with the batter contributing to two title-winning campaigns.
Beyond his batting capabilities, his leadership experience could prove valuable to the team. In the 2024 season, he scored 345 runs in 11 games at a strike rate of 167.47. The 33-year-old’s recent appointment as India’s T20I skipper will potentially boost MI’s confidence in retaining their star player.
Also Read – IPL 2024: 3 players who were underutilized by Mumbai Indians
3. Jasprit Bumrah
Ace Indian pacer, Jasprit Bumrah could be another potential retention for Mumbai in the upcoming mega auctions. The seamer has been instrumental in all five of MI’s championship victories. The franchise’s early trust in Bumrah pushed his career, leading to his inclusion in the Indian national team across all formats and his rise into becoming one of the best bowlers in the world.
Bumrah had an exceptional 2024 season, where he claimed 20 wickets in 13 matches with an economy of 6.48. As the team’s leading wicket-taker, he’s set to spearhead MI’s bowling attack once again. His stellar form continued into the recent T20 World Cup, where he played a crucial role in India’s second title victory. Bumrah’s outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Series award with 15 wickets.