A last-place finish in IPL 2024, a new captain initially met with mixed reactions at home, and the absence of key players at the start of the season present significant challenges for Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2025.
Despite these hurdles, the five-time champions are determined to secure their first title since 2020. Their strategy focuses on the strength of their retained core players, the return of experienced bowler Trent Boult, and the re-appointment of Mahela Jayawardene as head coach, who previously led them to three titles from 2017 to 2022.
“Last season presented difficulties, but a major auction and numerous changes have given us a fresh start,” Jayawardene stated at a pre-season press conference. “We aim to define our destiny with our experienced core group who understand our culture, playing style, and winning formula.”
He added, “The inclusion of returning veterans like Trent, crucial to our 2020 victory, is vital. Our focus is on integrating these elements, ensuring team cohesion, recognizing our strengths, and achieving a positive start.”
Addressing past season issues, including rumors of team rifts amidst early losses and fan reactions to Hardik Pandya’s captaincy replacing Rohit Sharma, Jayawardene, who was previously MI’s global head of performance, clarified, “Communication within the team environment was effective. Despite not being head coach last year, I was involved and aware. Our core group’s consistency has been key to our past successes in the challenging IPL. We are building on this foundation.”
“This year, we’ve enhanced our experience within the core group, a strategic objective. We have several players with IPL championship experience from various teams. My coaching approach focuses on structuring the team to maximize their potential and strategically incorporating new talent to add dynamism,” Jayawardene explained.
“Recent rule changes have altered the game’s dynamics, requiring us to adapt while maintaining our desired brand of aggressive and dominant cricket,” he noted.
Hardik Pandya, instrumental in India’s recent ICC title wins, including as vice-captain at the 2024 T20 World Cup, now leads MI alongside experienced leaders like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav. Pandya expressed confidence, stating the past year has been enriching and prepared him for current challenges.
“I am confident, as always,” Pandya asserted. “Life’s ups and downs have been valuable lessons, teaching me about both sport and life. This year is a fresh chapter with new elements. Passion, resilience, and challenges are constants I embrace. My priority is supporting my teammates through any difficulties.”
A significant early challenge is the expected absence of Jasprit Bumrah due to injury. MI will rely on their pace attack, including Boult, Deepak Chahar, Corbin Bosch, and Reece Topley, to compensate, particularly in crucial death overs where Bumrah’s impact is irreplaceable.
“Our bowling strategy is to leverage significant experience, crucial at the Wankhede stadium which can favor batsmen,” Pandya commented. “Bringing in experienced players like Trent and Deepak is key. Their past pressure experiences are invaluable, alongside Bumrah, Mujeeb, and other seasoned and emerging talents.”
Hardik himself will miss the opening game against CSK due to a suspension carried over from last season. Additionally, MI aims to overcome a historical trend of not winning their first match of an IPL season since 2012.
Jayawardene concluded, “Playing against CSK adds extra excitement. We are determined to break our historical pattern of slow starts and are eager to begin strongly.”
