IPL 2025: Finch lauds Mumbai Indians for their talented and experienced squad
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Former Australia captain Aaron Finch believes that the five-time champions Mumbai Indians have assembled a squad full of match winners for the IPL 2025 season, which begins on Saturday. He highlights the experience and talent within the team, including notable players like Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya.
Key Takeaways
- Aaron Finch praises the Mumbai Indians for having a talented and experienced lineup.
- MI has retained core players like Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya.
- Uncapped batter Naman Dhir is expected to have a breakout season.
- Josh Inglis is identified as a player to watch this season.
- Finch believes MI can improve despite being slow starters.
New Delhi, March 21 (NationPress) Former Australian captain Aaron Finch believes that the five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have assembled a team full of match winners for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, which kicks off on Saturday.
MI successfully re-signed pacer Trent Boult and Naman Dhir during last year's mega auction, ensuring their core group remains strong after retaining Rohit Sharma, captain Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah.
“I feel that everything is falling into place for the Mumbai Indians. They possess match winners and experience throughout their lineup. When you consider the roster, aside from Rohit, who is a legend of the game, they have Sky, Tilak, Hardik, Boult, and Bumrah. They have all the elements to post a significant score if they bat first, as well as wicket-taking capabilities through Bumrah and Boult. These seasoned players excel under pressure,” stated Finch, a JioStar expert, in a recent chat with IANS before the start of the 18th edition of TATA IPL.
“In a competition like the IPL, while they are often slow starters, I believe it’s time for Mumbai to climb back up the rankings.”
Finch also anticipates a breakout season for uncapped batter Naman, who was acquired by the franchise for Rs 5.25 crore through the Right to Match option. He has participated in seven IPL matches for the franchise, scoring 140 runs, including a half-century.
“I see potential in Naman Dhir. Despite only playing seven IPL games, he has an impressive strike rate of 177. The evolution of T20 cricket in recent years has reached new heights. Players like him can come in and be explosive right from the start. The younger Indian players, in particular, are now fearless and willing to take risks from the very first ball, regardless of their experience.”
“Previously, players might have been more cautious, attempting to secure their place in the team. That is no longer the case. Young talents like Naman Dhir are ready to take on challenges immediately. I believe he will play a crucial role in the middle to lower order and will emerge as a breakout star,” he added.
When asked which Australian player might shine this season, Finch pointed to debutant Josh Inglis as one to watch.
“I think Josh Inglis will have a remarkable season. He hasn't played many IPL games, but he is a fantastic player. This will be his first significant opportunity in the IPL. He has performed exceptionally in international cricket over the last 18 months after waiting for his chance and traveling with the Australian team.”
“Once he got his opportunity, he seized it, becoming the fastest ever to 100 runs in all three formats. He excels against both pace and spin, making him a top-notch player,” Finch concluded.
