Mumbai Indians are gearing up for a significant transition, marking a new chapter in their illustrious history. For the first time in over a decade, the five-time IPL champions will be led by a new captain, Hardik Pandya, following his move from Gujarat Titans. This change in leadership has sparked diverse reactions among cricket enthusiasts and introduced a complex dynamic with Rohit Sharma's continuing presence in the team.
The Mumbai Indians, who experienced a disappointing season in 2022 finishing at the bottom, managed to secure a spot in the playoffs in 2023. However, their journey was halted by a defeat against the Gujarat Titans, captained by none other than Hardik Pandya himself. While Hardik has previously led Gujarat Titans to IPL glory, he will still be under pressure to steer Mumbai Indians to success.
While Suryakumar Yadav's absence in the initial matches might be felt, the team welcomes the return of Jasprit Bumrah, who missed the 2022 season due to injury. Bumrah's comeback is a significant boost for the squad, considering his prowess as one of the leading bowlers in international cricket.
Strengths:
Mumbai Indians boast an enviable batting lineup, arguably the finest among all IPL teams. Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya and Tim David, the team's top 6 present a formidable challenge for their opponents. Add Nehal Wadhera to these 6 and you're looking at a destructive batting order. Additionally, Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead the bowling attack, adding a lethal edge to their defence. When on song, there's no better bowler in world cricket.
Weaknesses:
Despite their strengths, the Mumbai Indians face challenges in their spin department. Last season, Piyush Chawla emerged as a standout performer with 22 wickets. However, they still don't have high-calibre backup options. Despite the presence of Kumar Kartikeya, Shams Mulani, and Shreyas Gopal, their spin attack looks vulnerable.
Probable XI:
Rohit Sharma
Ishan Kishan
Suryakumar Yadav
Tilak Varma
Hardik Pandya (c)
Tim David
Mohammad Nabi
Gerald Coetzee
Piyush Chawla
Jasprit Bumrah
Jason Behrendorff
MI Schedule for 1st leg of IPL 2024
March 24 - Gujarat Titans vs Mumbai Indians, Ahmedabad - 7:30 PM
March 27 - Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Mumbai Indians, Hyderabad - 7:30 PM
April 01 - Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai - 7:30 PM
April 07 - Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals, Mumbai - 3:30 PM
Mumbai Indians full squad for IPL 2024
Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Dewald Brevis, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (C), Tim David, Arjun Tendulkar, Kumar Kartikeya, Jason Behrendorff, Akash Madhwal, Vishnu Vinod, Romario Shepherd, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Piyush Chawla, Gerald Coetzee, Dilshan Madhushanka, Shreyas Gopal, Nuwan Thushara, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Mohammad Nabi