The IPL 2025 mega auction, held in Jeddah on November 24 and 25, witnessed intense bidding wars among franchises. For the five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI), it was a productive two days as they secured 18 players, fortifying their squad for another title pursuit. The highlight of MI’s auction activity was the acquisition of Trent Boult for ₹12.5 crore, making him the franchise’s marquee signing. Alongside Boult, notable additions like Deepak Chahar, Will Jacks, and Mitchell Santner bring depth and versatility to the team.
Here’s an in-depth analysis of Mumbai Indians’ squad, their auction strategy, and their prospects for IPL 2025.
Mumbai Indians IPL 2025 Squad: Full List
Retained Players:
- Jasprit Bumrah (₹18 crore): India’s premier pacer and the backbone of MI’s bowling attack.
- Suryakumar Yadav (₹16.35 crore): A dynamic batter capable of playing game-changing innings.
- Hardik Pandya (₹16.35 crore): The star all-rounder and a proven match-winner.
- Rohit Sharma (₹16.3 crore): The captain and batting mainstay.
- Tilak Varma (₹8 crore): A rising talent with the potential to become a cornerstone of MI’s middle order.
New Signings:
- Trent Boult (₹12.50 crore): The Kiwi speedster adds firepower and experience to the bowling unit.
- Deepak Chahar (₹9.25 crore): A swing specialist and an asset in the powerplay overs.
- Will Jacks (₹5.25 crore): A versatile batter with explosive capabilities.
- Naman Dhir (₹5.25 crore): A young talent with immense potential.
- Mitchell Santner (₹2 crore): A dependable spin-bowling all-rounder.
- Ryan Rickelton (₹1 crore): A South African batter adding depth to the top order.
- Allah Ghazanfar (₹4.80 crore): A young spinner with promise.
- Robin Minz (₹65 lakh): A domestic talent strengthening the middle order.
- Karn Sharma (₹50 lakh): An experienced leg-spinner.
- Reece Topley (₹75 lakh): An English left-arm pacer known for his accuracy.
- Krishnan Shrijith (₹30 lakh): A wicketkeeper-batter offering backup options.
- Raj Angad Bawa (₹30 lakh): A versatile young all-rounder.
- Satyanarayana Raju (₹30 lakh): A domestic spinner for depth.
- Bevon Jacobs (₹30 lakh): A young batting prospect.
- Arjun Tendulkar (₹30 lakh): A left-arm pacer who continues his journey with MI.
- Lizaad Williams (₹75 lakh): A South African pacer with experience in T20 leagues.
- Ashwani Kumar (₹30 lakh): A domestic player adding bench strength.
- Vignesh Puthur (₹30 lakh): A late addition to bolster the squad.
Key Highlights of MI’s Auction Strategy
1. Rebuilding the Pace Attack
Mumbai Indians focused heavily on strengthening their bowling lineup, particularly in the pace department. The inclusion of Trent Boult, a proven match-winner with the new ball and at the death, complements Jasprit Bumrah’s world-class skills. Deepak Chahar brings the ability to swing the ball in powerplay overs, making him a critical acquisition for ₹9.25 crore. Additionally, MI added Reece Topley and Lizaad Williams, ensuring a balanced attack with left-arm variations.
2. Investing in Versatility
MI’s purchases show a clear emphasis on versatility. Players like Will Jacks and Mitchell Santner provide multiple options. Jacks can dominate with the bat and chip in with off-spin, while Santner is a reliable spin-bowling all-rounder who strengthens the middle order. Raj Angad Bawa, a promising domestic all-rounder, reflects the franchise’s focus on nurturing young talent.
3. Depth in Batting
MI’s batting lineup already boasts big names like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma. To reinforce their batting strength, MI secured players like Ryan Rickelton and Will Jacks, who can contribute aggressively at the top and in the middle order. Domestic players like Robin Minz and Bevon Jacobs add further depth to the bench.
4. Building for the Future
The inclusion of young talents like Naman Dhir, Allah Ghazanfar, and Arjun Tendulkar highlights MI’s long-term planning. These players, while relatively untested, have the potential to grow under the franchise’s experienced leadership.
Star Signings: Impact Players for MI
1. Trent Boult (₹12.50 crore)
Boult’s return to MI is a significant boost. Known for his lethal inswingers and pin-point yorkers, he will likely form a deadly new-ball pair with Bumrah. Boult’s experience in handling high-pressure situations makes him invaluable for MI’s title aspirations.
2. Deepak Chahar (₹9.25 crore)
Chahar’s ability to swing the ball upfront makes him a game-changer in the powerplay. His batting skills also add depth to the lower order, making him a two-dimensional asset.
3. Will Jacks (₹5.25 crore)
Jacks’ explosive batting style and ability to provide overs of off-spin make him a versatile option for MI. His strike rate in T20 leagues has been phenomenal, and he could be the perfect finisher for the team.
4. Mitchell Santner (₹2 crore)
Santner’s left-arm spin is an excellent addition to MI’s bowling arsenal, especially on subcontinental tracks. His ability to control the game in the middle overs and contribute with the bat makes him a valuable pick.
Strengths of MI’s Squad Post-Auction
1. World-Class Bowling Lineup
With the combination of Boult, Bumrah, Chahar, and Santner, MI has one of the most balanced bowling attacks in IPL 2025. The addition of Topley and Williams provides variety and depth, ensuring the team can adapt to different conditions.
2. Explosive Batting
MI’s batting lineup remains formidable with established players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya. The inclusion of Jacks and Rickelton adds further firepower.
3. Leadership and Experience
With Rohit Sharma at the helm and experienced campaigners like Bumrah, Pandya, and Suryakumar in the core, MI has a wealth of leadership on and off the field.
4. Young Talent
MI’s investment in young players ensures a strong pipeline for the future. Naman Dhir, Allah Ghazanfar, and Bevon Jacobs are promising talents who could shine under the guidance of senior players.
Challenges and Weaknesses
1. Over-Reliance on Senior Players
MI’s core remains heavily reliant on Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya. Injuries or a dip in form for any of these players could impact the team significantly.
2. Thin Spin Department
While MI secured Santner and Karn Sharma, the spin department lacks a standout match-winner. On spin-friendly tracks, this could be a concern.
3. Middle-Order Stability
Although Jacks and Santner provide flexibility, the middle order still appears slightly vulnerable if the top order fails. Dependence on Tilak Varma to anchor innings could be risky.
Predicted Playing XI for MI in IPL 2025
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Will Jacks
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Tilak Varma
- Hardik Pandya
- Ryan Rickelton
- Mitchell Santner
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Deepak Chahar
- Trent Boult
- Reece Topley
Conclusion
Mumbai Indians emerged from the IPL 2025 auction with a well-rounded squad that balances experience, young talent, and match-winning potential. The return of Trent Boult, coupled with the addition of players like Deepak Chahar and Will Jacks, reflects a thoughtful strategy aimed at maintaining their dominance in the league.
While challenges like spin depth and middle-order consistency exist, MI’s core of proven performers, complemented by exciting new signings, makes them strong contenders for the title. With Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah leading the charge, the Mumbai Indians are poised to light up IPL 2025.
