As the anticipation builds for the IPL 2025 mega auction, former cricketer Aakash Chopra has shared his insights on the probable retentions for the Mumbai Indians (MI). Following a disappointing season in 2024, where MI became the first team eliminated from the tournament, the franchise is keen to retain its core players and rebuild for future success.

Aakash Chopra’s insights on IPL 2025 Retentions for MI

In a recent video on his YouTube channel, Chopra highlighted the return of Mahela Jayawardene to the MI setup, suggesting that changes are underway. He emphasized that MI aims to retain key players based on their current form and potential impact.

“Mahela Jayawardene is back. So some changes have started happening. The Mumbai Indians are trying to retain their core as well, considering the form Hardik Pandya is in, and they have Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma/Ishan Kishan,” Chopra stated.

MI’s probable retention list

Chopra outlined several players that MI is likely to retain ahead of the auction:

Jasprit Bumrah: Recognized as one of the world’s best fast bowlers, Bumrah’s retention is almost certain due to his pivotal role in MI’s bowling lineup.

Hardik Pandya: Despite a challenging season in 2024, Pandya’s leadership and all-round performance during India’s T20 World Cup triumph make him an essential retention.

Also READ: IPL 2025 – 3 key reasons why Hardik Pandya should remain the captain of Mumbai Indians

Suryakumar Yadav: As a key figure in both MI and India’s T20 setup, Yadav’s batting prowess and captaincy experience add immense value.

Rohit Sharma: Although there are rumours about his potential departure from MI, his legacy as a five-time IPL-winning captain makes him a significant consideration.

Tilak Varma/Ishan Kishan: Both young talents have shown promise and could be retained based on their performances.

Chopra noted that MI might opt for a combination of five retained players along with one uncapped player, allowing them to enter the auction with INR 79 crore remaining in their purse.

“After that, they have Nehal Wadhera. I mean they have plenty. So they might retain 5+1 and reach the auction after spending 79 crores. They are the ones who are able to manage because the six players they will retain are going to be part of the XI, and all will be Indians. So they can still pull it off,” he added.

Chopra also pointed out that retaining these six players would ensure they remain integral parts of the playing XI. This approach aligns with MI’s historical success model while allowing flexibility in future acquisitions.

As the deadline for players’ retention approaches on October 31, 2024, all eyes will be on how the Mumbai-based franchise navigate this crucial phase. With a blend of seasoned stars and emerging talent, MI hopes to bounce back and reclaim their status as one of the dominant forces in IPLT20.

Also READ: Suryakumar Yadav’s salary to increase in IPL 2025 – Here’s how MI star gains from the new retention rules

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