Mumbai Indians' Core for IPL 2025: Who Are the Must-Retain Players

Mumbai Indians (MI), the most decorated franchise in IPL history, endured a nightmare campaign in 2024, finding themselves at the bottom of the table. Plagued by both on-field inconsistencies and off-field challenges, the season was far from what the five-time champions had envisioned. However, MI’s roster still boasts a reservoir of talent, providing a solid foundation for a resurgence in IPL 2025. To rebuild and recapture its former glory, the franchise must retain a core group of battle-hardened players with the experience and skill to steer the team forward.

Jasprit Bumrah

Jasprit Bumrah, widely considered the best bowler in the world, is an absolute no-brainer when it comes to MI's retention list. Bumrah returned to form after a back injury that saw him miss the 2023 IPL season, and his performances in 2024 reaffirmed his status as one of the finest bowlers across all formats. Despite MI’s struggles last season, Bumrah was a beacon of hope, showcasing his ability to handle all phases of the game and dominate opposing batters with his precise and lethal bowling.

Bumrah’s brilliance lies in his ability to adapt across all phases of the game be it the powerplay, middle overs, or the pressure-packed death. His lethal yorkers, subtle variations in pace, and pinpoint accuracy make him a nightmare for batters and a priceless asset for MI. As the linchpin of the bowling unit, Bumrah provides not just skill but unmatched stability

Suryakumar Yadav

Suryakumar Yadav, the world’s #1 ranked T20I batter, is essential for MI. While his 2024 IPL season was marred by a couple of injuries, he remains a vital part of MI’s lineup. His attacking prowess and ability to dominate both spin and pace make him one of the most exciting batters in the game. Additionally, Suryakumar has now taken over as India’s T20I captain, a role that could add a new layer of leadership qualities to his game.

Known for his 360-degree hitting, Suryakumar can shift the momentum of the game with his innovative stroke play, making him a valuable asset in the top order. If MI hopes to fortify their batting order and create a strong, balanced lineup, retaining Suryakumar would be crucial. His retention would offer stability at the top while adding versatility to his approach.

Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya's 2024 IPL season was challenging; he was plagued by dressing-room issues, and his form with both bat and ball was far from his best. But since then, he’s bounced back remarkably, showing his true potential in the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he excelled as one of India’s standout players. His recent performances in the Bangladesh T20I series displayed his powerful hitting abilities, proving that he’s returning to his prime.

Hardik is a pace-bowling all-rounder, a rare and valuable profile that MI would struggle to replace in the auction. Retaining Hardik ensures MI has a balanced all-rounder who can play a decisive role in both bowling and batting. His power-hitting in the middle overs and his potential to bowl crucial overs make him a crucial part of the MI core.