Hardik Pandya - SportsIstan

In a significant announcement, the Mumbai Indians (MI) have confirmed that Hardik Pandya will continue as captain for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. This decision follows a challenging IPL 2024 campaign, in which MI finished at the bottom of the table for only the second time in their history. The franchise has opted to retain a core group of players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, and Tilak Varma, alongside Pandya. This strategic retention, totaling INR 75 crore, leaves MI with INR 45 crore to enhance their squad during the IPL mega auction. Also read: Jasprit Bumrah Likely to Miss Mumbai Test Against New Zealand Bumrah is MI's highest retention this year at INR 18 crore, marking a first in his IPL career. Pandya and Suryakumar have been retained at INR 16.35 crore each, while Rohit Sharma’s retention stands at INR 16.30 crore, and Tilak Varma has been retained for INR 8 crore. Rohit Sharma expressed satisfaction with his retention, stating, "Since I have retired from the format, I think this is the perfect spot for me." He emphasized the importance of prioritizing players representing the national team. Hardik Pandya, reflecting on his journey with MI, shared, "Everything I've achieved in my life has been part of Mumbai Indians. This year is going to be even more special. We remember our successes in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020, and we are determined to come back stronger in 2025." Also read: RCB Set to Retain Kohli, Patidar, and Dayal Ahead of IPL 2025 Mega Auction Despite facing challenges in the previous season, where he received criticism from fans and scored only 216 runs with an economy rate of 10.75, Pandya remains optimistic about the team's future. He highlighted the unity within the squad, stating, "We are five fingers but one fist. Brotherhood, friendship, and backing each other is our mantra." Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani affirmed the franchise's commitment to its legacy, remarking, "The strong legacy of MI will be carried forward by our core group. We aim to continue playing the passionate brand of cricket expected from us." Additionally, MI has announced the return of Mahela Jayawardene as head coach for IPL 2025, further solidifying their strategy to revitalize the team after last season's performance. Related