This 2025 Indian Premier League was a rollercoaster campaign for Mumbai Indians (mi). The five-time champion has made a surprising comeback, losing four of his first five matches but stringing together six straight wins. Their revival helped them secure the fourth playoff spot with a record of 8 wins and 6 losses.
Mumbai Indians’ campaign in IPL 2025
In the playoffs, Mi showed his trademark fighting spirit by defeating Gujarat titans In the eliminator. However, their journey ended in qualifier 2 against a dominant one Kings of the Punjab material. Despite the heartache, the season has a few positives – most notably, Suryakumar YadavGreat shape and Jasprit BumrahAn impressive comeback after losing the early games.
Can 5 players keep IPL 2026 ahead?
As the IPL 2026 Mega auction looms, the Mi management is facing tough decisions on player retention. With a mix of experience and youth, the franchise must identify players who shape its future. Based on consistency, impact and potential, here are five Indian players likely to lead Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2026 auction.
1. Rohit Sharma – experienced anchor
- 2025 Performance: 418 runs in 15 games with 4 fifty-fifty games
Regardless Rohit Sharma As far as his career goes, his class remains undisputed. In IPL 2025, the former Mi Skipper has seen the best and leading youngsters to employ the best, the ones who matter and the experience. His ability to absorb pressure and step up when required still makes him a valuable presence at the top of the order.
Moreover, Rohit’s presence brings stability to Mi’s batting line-up. His tactical acumen and calm demeanor make him an ideal top figure in the squad. The franchise can look to him as a mentor-leader hybrid, looking to the next generation as he continues to deliver with the bat.
2. Hardik Pandya (c) – leader and all-round engine
- 2025 Plays: 224 runs in 15 games (HS: 48 *) | 14 Wickets (Best: 5/36)
Hardik PandyaThe year 2025 marked a new chapter for the Mumbai Development Franchise, which he founded Mumbai Indians. Named captain, he brought grit, energy and determination to lead the team through a turbulent start and into the playoffs. His all-round performances have added immense value – providing balance with both bat and ball.
Although his batting return was modest, his leadership and crucial bonling spells, including a five-wicket haul, highlighted the impact. Hardik’s dynamic style and aggressive mindset epitomizes the modern Mi Spirit, making him an automatic catch pick to start IPL 2026.
3. Suryakumar Yadav – Mumbai Mr. 360
- 2025 Performance: 717 runs with 5 fifties in 16 games
The consistent performer of the season, Suryakumar has enjoyed a dream run in IPL 2025. As the second-highest run-getter of the tournament, he finished tied for second-highest run-getter of the tournament. His ability to find boundaries around the ground regardless of the state of the match made him the backbone of Mi’s batting.
Suryakumar’s explosive form won him the MVP award and he played a key role in MISNAROUNDING during Mi’s tenure. Given his experience, fit and franchise loyalty, retaining him will be among MI’s top priorities in the 2026 season.
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4. Tilak varma – rising star
- 2025 Performance: 343 runs in 16 games
Do not pray He continues to impress as one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket. His composure under pressure and mature batting made him a reliable middle-order batter. In 2025, Tilak is running crucially in several tight contests, showing remarkable temperament and adaptability.
Mi will likely retain him not only for his batting prowess but also for his long-term potential. With the ownership of seniors like Rohit and Suryakumar, Tilak could become a cornerstone star of the franchise for years to come.
5. Jasprit Bumrah – Spearhead of MI’s bowling attack
- 2025 Performance: 18 Wickets in 12 games (Best: 4/22)
Bumrah proved once again that he is considered one of the best fast bowlers in the world. Despite missing the first few matches due to workload management, Bumrah finished as Mi’s second highest Wicket-Taker. A lethal Yorker and ability to deliver under pressure makes him indispensable to the team’s bowling setup.
His presence provides both leadership and creativity in moments of crisis. Heading into IPL 2026, Bumrah will be central to Mi’s strategy to anchor a bowling line-up that continues to develop around him.
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