The Mumbai Indians, the powerhouse team from the West of India and co-leading IPL trophy winners had a dreadful season. There are no two ways to cut it. The team from Maharashtra had one of the most forgettable seasons in memory. After a mixed start, as the season went on the team just seemed to spiral downwards eventually finishing rock bottom on the table.
Much could be said about the fortunes of the Mumbai Indians, who at the start of the season started as strong contenders. With a powerful line of players, in addition to a new captain combined with the wisdom and guidance of the legend Sachin Tendulkar behind them. But it was not. All the promise and potential came crashing down in a terrible season. Here we explain how things can be turned around for the next.
Mumbai Indians 2024 – The Curse of Two Captains
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Whilst there is officially only one captain: the star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who was poached from the Gujrat Titans this year. But when you looked at how the team performed, and the facial expressions of the players – notably that of the captain, and his counterpart, the national captain Rohit Sharma, it at times felt like the team had two leaders. The maxim that too many cooks spoil the soup was in play at a leadership level.
Whilst it is not wise to speculate, especially since no real news broke out of any dressing room conflicts between Panday and Sharma, for the astute observer, it was undeniable that there was something in the air. Very early on in the season, when the defeats started pilling up the expression on Captain Panday gave a few hints. Things inside the Mumbai Indians dressing room, at least from a leadership standpoint were not settled.
Further questions can be raised on Hardik Panday’s leadership as a whole. When a team performs this badly, going number four in the standing to the bottom of the barrel, the captain’s role needs to be questioned. And here blame must fall on Hardik Panday’s shoulders.
What Needs to Be Done for MI
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Going forward the Mumbai Indians think tank may have to take certain drastic measures. That may involve moving on from either Rohit Sharma or Hardik Pandya. There are two captains in a single team and only one can lead. This cannot continue.
On paper, Mumbai Indians have one of the strongest lineups in the tournament. Just the Indian players alone consist of world-class players that can break into virtually any team. So what the team needs is leadership and a new philosophy. Something seems off about MI.
If one looks at the more successful teams this season: from the Sunerisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, and champions Kolkata Knight Riders; each of these teams settled on a certain formula that works for them. The Mumbai Indians need one of their own.
Presuming Rohit Sharma is the player to go next season, the opening slot needs to be filled with an informed opener who can score big. This may mean bringing in top overseas talent or promoting a homegrown player. Whatever the route, the open pair needs to be solid.
Also Read: Usama Mir’s T20 Blast Contract Canceled After PCB Deny NOC
Mumbai Indian’s Bowling Attack– Going Beyond Bumrah
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There is no doubt that Jasprit Bumrah is one of the best pacers in the game. And is arguably the best T20 bowler going around. And the entry of Nuwan Thushara, with the slinging action, is bound to bode well in the bowling department. But this is not enough. If one looks at the top-performing teams like KKR, their strength lies in a strong bowling lineup that can restrict batsmen at both ends.
A bowling attack where pacers compliment the spinners and vice versa. This means that specialist spinners and middle-over bowlers who can strangle the opposition are badly needed. Whilst Hardik Panday’s bowling is definitively a bonus, when the opposition goes on the attack, the Mumbai Indians need players who can do the job under pressure consistently. This requires some serious thought if Mumbai is to be competitive next season.
About the Author
Damian Thar writes on a range of topics. In addition to his professional work, he writes essays on subjects like philosophy, history, and culture. He also writes and edits books and in his free time, he makes YouTube videos on topics like religion, theology, and current events. You can find his work here.
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