India showcased a dominant performance to seal a 3-1 series win over South Africa with a thumping 135-run victory at the Wanderers Stadium. Opting to bat first after Suryakumar Yadav finally won the toss, the visitors set the stage for a historic game. Openers Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson got India off to a flying start, with Abhishek smashing a quickfire 36 off 18 before falling. Tilak Varma, promoted to his preferred number three spot, then took center stage alongside Samson. The duo unleashed a brutal assault on the Proteas bowlers, putting up a record-breaking 210-run partnership. Both batters brought up scintillating centuries as India amassed a colossal 283/1 in their 20 overs, leaving the hosts with a mountain to climb.

In reply, South Africa's chase unraveled from the outset, courtesy of a lethal display of swing bowling by Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya. Arshdeep dismantled the top order, removing Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, and Aiden Markram in quick succession, while Hardik chipped in by dismissing Ryan Rickelton. With four wickets down for just 10 runs in three overs, the Proteas were left in tatters. The Indian bowlers maintained relentless pressure, with spinners Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar Patel striking in the middle overs, and the rest of the attack contributing wickets. South Africa eventually folded for 148 in 18.4 overs. Arshdeep finished with three scalps, while every bowler picked up at least one wicket in a clinical all-round effort that capped off a remarkable series win for India.

See Also: Marco Jansen’s fiery knock gives South Africa hope but falls Just 11 runs short

Breakdown of Tilak Varma's 120 Knock

Tilak Varma’s magnificent knock of 120 runs in India’s dominant victory against South Africa was a masterclass in clean and calculated hitting. Walking in at number three, Tilak wasted no time asserting his dominance, crafting a memorable innings with exquisite stroke play and clever placement. His knock was a perfect blend of composure and aggression, as evident in his ability to target different bowlers effectively. This table provides a breakdown of how Tilak managed to dismantle the South African bowling attack.

Against A Simelane, Tilak started cautiously, scoring 14 runs off 7 balls. He ensured a high strike rate of 200 by finding the boundary with a four and a six. This early burst set the tone for his innings, showcasing his ability to rotate the strike while not letting any loose delivery go unpunished. His boundary percentage of 71.4% against Simelane illustrated how effectively he cashed in on the opportunities presented.

Tilak’s most aggressive burst came against Aiden Markram, smashing 22 runs off just 6 balls at an astonishing strike rate of 366.7. With two fours and two sixes, Markram was left clueless as Tilak dominated with his power hitting. His boundary percentage of 90.9% against Markram epitomized his intent to keep the scoreboard ticking at an explosive rate, leaving no room for the bowler to settle.

KA Maharaj and Lutho Sipamla faced the brunt of Tilak’s calculated aggression as well. Against Maharaj, he collected 26 runs off 10 balls, displaying remarkable skill to deal with spin, hitting one four and three sixes with a boundary percentage of 84.6%. Similarly, Sipamla was taken apart for 24 runs off 8 balls, with Tilak smashing two boundaries and two sixes, maintaining a boundary percentage of 83.3%. His ability to pick the gaps and clear the ropes showed his versatility against both pace and spin.

Tilak finished his innings with short yet impactful cameos against Marco Jansen and Tristan Stubbs, scoring 14 runs off 7 balls and 8 runs off 3 balls, respectively. His strike rate remained consistent, as he picked his bowlers with precision and ensured the team reached a mammoth total. This innings not only highlighted Tilak’s maturity as a batter but also underlined his ability to control the game with decisive, well-executed shots across the park.

See Also: Tilak Varma’s heroic century secures thrilling win for India over South Africa

Indian batters Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma powerfully thrashed the South African bowlers to set up the fifth-highest total in T20I history. 

After Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav chose to bat first at Johannesburg, powerful Indian top orders drove the team to 283/1 in 20 overs. 

Indian openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma set up a dominant 73-run first-wicket partnership inside the powerplay. Sharma was caught behind just one ball before the powerplay completion after scoring 36 off 18 balls with the help of two fours and four sixes. 

Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma scored centuries

Then Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma’s powerful batting performances just destroyed the Proteas bowlers. Although there were some opportunities, South African fielders dropped those chances to only add to their disappointment. Their batting helped India score 283/1, which was India’s second-highest total and overall the fifth-highest total in T20I history. India’s highest T20I total is 297/6 against Bangladesh at Hyderabad last October. 

Sanju Samson completed his third T20I century in 51 balls. After Rohit Sharma (5 centuries) and Suryakumar Yadav (4 centuries), Samson became the third Indian to record three T20I centuries. Samson remained not out for 109 runs in 56 balls with the help of six fours and nine sixes. 

On the other hand, Tilak Varma reached the century mark in 41 balls. It was his back-to-back T20I century. After Sanju Samson, Varma became the second Indian to record T20I centuries in two consecutive innings. Also, Varma became the fifth Indian to record multiple T20I hundreds. Varma scored 120 not out off just 47 balls with the help of nine fours and ten sixes. 

Samson-Varma had a record partnership in Indian cricket

Samson and Varma had a 210-run partnership for the unbroken second wicket. While it was the first 200-run partnership for India and the second wicket in T20I history, it was also the sixth-highest T20I partnership for any wicket. 

India hit their record number of sixes

Meanwhile, India hit 23 sixes in the innings. While it was their record sixes in a T20I innings, it was also the joint third most sixes in overall T20I innings history.

India seized a thrilling victory over South Africa in a high-scoring clash in Centurion, taking a 2-1 lead in the four-match T20I series. Batting first, India overcame early setbacks after Sanju Samson was dismissed for a duck by Marco Jansen. However, Tilak Varma, with his maiden T20I century, and Abhishek Sharma counter-attacked brilliantly, adding 107 runs in just over eight overs to lay a solid foundation. Although Suryakumar Yadav's struggles continued with another low score, Tilak held the innings together and finished unbeaten. Debutant Ramandeep Singh provided a late surge, smashing the first ball he faced for a six, which helped India surpass 210 runs.

In response, South Africa put up a spirited chase, with Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, and Jansen giving India a scare. Jansen’s blazing half-century, the fastest against India, narrowed the gap, but India’s bowlers managed to hold their nerve on a batting-friendly pitch. Arshdeep Singh dismissed Ryan Rickelton early and later returned to close out the game with a crucial wicket in the final over. Despite a few nervy moments, India's balanced performance earned them a well-fought win, setting up an unassailable lead with one game remaining.

See Also: Tristan Stubbs powers South Africa to thrilling victory in 2nd T20I

Breakdown of Tilak Varma's 107 knock 

Tilak Varma produced a stunning innings of 107 off just 56 balls against South Africa, lighting up the third T20I with an explosive batting display. His knock, characterized by his aggressive yet calculated shot-making, proved crucial for India in setting a daunting target. With a remarkable strike rate of 191.07, Tilak showcased his ability to dominate the bowling attack and demonstrated his maturity on the big stage. His innings featured a variety of powerful shots, with the flick emerging as his most productive shot, contributing 27% of his runs.

Bowler-wise, Tilak was particularly severe on Gerald Coetzee, from whom he scored a match-high 27 runs. Coetzee’s pace and length provided Tilak with the ideal opportunities to free his arms, allowing him to drive and pull with ease. Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj also found themselves on the receiving end, conceding 18 runs each. Though Jansen managed to dismiss Sanju Samson early, Tilak’s aggressive intent against him and the other bowlers put India in a commanding position. Simelane, Sipamla, and Markram were all attacked strategically, with Tilak finding ways to maximize every scoring opportunity.

One of the standout features of Tilak’s innings was his boundary-hitting ability, with 69% of his runs coming from fours and sixes. He timed his strokes with precision, dispatching the ball to all parts of the ground. The wagon wheel of his innings revealed his skill in exploiting gaps and maneuvering the field, making it hard for the Proteas’ bowlers to contain him. Tilak’s shot selection was on point, particularly against the spinners, where he used his wrists to flick and drive the ball to the boundary with ease.

Tilak’s innings not only bolstered India’s total but also showcased his growth as a batsman who can play different roles. Coming in at a crucial position, he took his time to assess the conditions before launching into full-fledged attack mode. His composure against both pace and spin underlined his versatility, as he adapted his approach based on the bowler and field settings. His shot placement and timing made it evident that he was in complete control, allowing him to build a memorable innings.

The knock earned Tilak the Player of the Match (POTM) award and solidified his reputation as a dependable middle-order batsman for India. With such an impressive performance, he has set the standard high for future games, providing India with the stability and explosiveness they need in the T20 format. His ability to accelerate the innings while maintaining a high strike rate will surely make him a key player to watch in upcoming matches.

See Also: Varun Chakravarthy Dominates South African Batters Once Again

The youngster Tilak Varma’s powerful century guides India to score 219/6 at the end of the first innings of the Centurion T20I.

It is the third game of the four-match T20I series between the hosts South Africa and the visitors India. With the 1-1 series scoreline, South African captain Aiden Markram once again won the toss and chose to field first. 

While Tilak Varma scored 107 runs off 56 balls with the help of eight fours and seven sixes, India recorded their second-highest T20I total against South Africa. India’s highest T20I total against South Africa is 237/3 (20 overs) during the 2022 Guwahati T20I. 

Sanju Samson scored another duck

After scoring two centuries in his back-to-back T20I innings, Sanju Samson scored ducks in back-to-back T20I innings. While he scored a duck in three balls in the previous game, he was bowled for another duck in two balls in the third T20I of the series. 

Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma had a century partnership

Although the visitors were 0/1 in 0.2 overs, another opener Abhishek Sharma and the no.3 batter Tilak Varma handled the situation very well. They helped India to score 70/1 at the end of the powerplay. 

Sharma and Varma set a 107-run partnership for the second wicket before Sharma was stumped after scoring 50 off 25 balls with the help of three fours and five sixes. 

Captain Suryakumar Yadav (1) was dismissed early while Hardik Pandya (18) couldn’t bat longer despite a good start. 

Varma completed his fifty runs in 32 balls and then he thrashed the Proteas bowlers. Although Rinku Singh (8) couldn’t score many runs, he provided good support to Varma as they had a 58-run partnership for the fifth wicket. 

Debutant Ramandeep Singh impressed in short times by scoring 15 off just six balls. 

Varma became second youngest Indian cricketer to record T20I century

On the other hand, Varma strongly dominated against the South African bowlers. The left-handed batter completed his first T20I century in 51 balls. By scoring his first T20I century at the age of just 22 years and five days, he became the second youngest Indian cricketer to score a T20I century. 

Yashasvi Jaiswal holds the record for the youngest Indian to score a T20I century with his 100 off 49 balls against Nepal at the age of 21 years and 279 days during last year’s Asian Games.  

The 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League will unfold in the mode of a Mega Auction. The recent news of the retention list being released by the ten participating franchises has stirred up a lot of talk, primarily relating to some shocking releases of commendable contributors to their respective teams.

Though it also comprises the right performers being retained, the upcoming mega auctions would be a wild ride, with several top names making an entry under the hammer. But, there have been some retentions that were a steal and absolutely worth it. That said, here's a list of the top 5 best retentions made before the start of the 2025 IPL Mega Auction.

Jasprit Bumrah (Mumbai Indians- INR 18 Crore)

Jasprit Bumrah has been hailed as one of the best fast bowlers in the modern cricketing generation. Arising as a 2013 young pacer with Mumbai Indians, Bumrah's evolution as a reliable quickie is something not to forget. He has done it all, be it giving a nightmare to the batters in the powerplay or turning the game around by taking wickets during the final stages.

It was unsurprising to find his career shuttler retaining him for the highest amount of INR 18 Crore, signifying his importance in the future. In his 2024 IPL stint, he was the lone warrior in Mumbai Indians' disastrous campaign by scalping 20 wickets in 14 matches, making him the third-highest wicket-taker of that edition. 

Nitish Kumar Reddy (Sunrisers Hyderabad- INR 6 Crore)

Sunrisers Hyderabad has become one of the franchises that has given several emerging cricketers who have grown and significantly impacted the sporting world. Nitish Kumar Reddy is an emerging player from the Orange Army who has caught fanatics' eyes thanks to his commendable all-rounder performances in just a few appearances.

He was awarded the Emerging Player of the Tournament for his colossal 303 runs and three wickets in 13 matches. With him making a stellar international debut in the recent T20I series Bangladesh, it is not surprising to find him getting retained for just INR 6 Crores, which is a steal. 

Tilak Varma (Mumbai Indians- INR 8 Crore)

Tilak Varma is another emerging season campaigner who helped bolster Mumbai Indians' middle-order attack in the previous edition. By retaining him for INR 8 Crore, there is no doubt that it was a steal deal, as they primarily focused on the future prospects and were eager to have players onboarded for the long run.

Though they had many options to retain, Tilak Varma completes the balance quotient for the Mumbai Indians retention list, as it already comprises two strong top-order batters (Rohit Sharma & Suryakumar Yadav), one lethal pacer (Jasprit Bumrah) and a reliable captain all-rounder (Hardik Pandya). In his 2024 tenure, Varma has made 416 runs in 13 matches at a commendable average of over 42. 

Also Read: IPL 2025: Top 5 Worst Retentions during the 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Rinku Singh (Kolkata Knight Riders- INR 13 Crore)

Rinku Singh joined the Knight Riders in 2018 for a base fee of Rs 50 lakh and has remained with them since then. In his first few seasons, he did not get enough playing time. However, since 2023, he has increased in prominence. He became one of KKR's top finishers, capable of leading them to victory even in challenging situations. Rinku demonstrated the ability to maintain his calm under pressure.

As his success shows, he was retained by the Kolkata Knight Riders for a staggering INR 13 crore, signifying a 2264% hike. This also demonstrates how hard work and growth go hand in hand. In the 2024 edition, Rinku Singh made 168 runs in 14 matches, which might indicate low numbers, but the swashbuckling batter has always been a vital asset to the three-time champions. 

Sai Sudharshan (Gujarat Titans- INR 8.5 Crore)

Sai Sudharshan is another name to be added to the best retention list and an emerging player to check out. The Gujarat Giants retention list comprises an optimum mix of experienced and emerging players, with Sudharshan on the emerging side. Starting with a base salary of just INR 20 Lakh, he will get an enormous INR 8.5 Crore, indicating a 4150% hike.

His clean and power-hitting approach has brought him to fame; hence, this result is shown in the retention list of the 2022 champions. He had a memorable time with the bat in the previous edition, as he made 527 runs in just 12 matches with a century, making him the highest run-scorer for the team during that tournament. 

Star India player Tilak Varma was aiming to do well in his game from being just a batter to developing all-round skills as well. The youngster was targeting the ongoing domestic season to flaunt his batting as well as bowling skills. He was part of Shubman Gill-led India A in round 1 of the Duleep Trophy 2024 but he did not play at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru against India B as well.

“Since this Indian Premier League (IPL) season, and from last year in general, I have been working on my bowling a lot,” Tilak told Sportstar. “Especially with the red ball, I am focusing a lot on my game as an all-rounder. If I perform well in the longest format, it’s very easy to go and deliver with the white ball, so that’s why I’m bowling a lot nowadays,” Tilak explained.

"I have been working on my bowling a lot" - Tilak Varma

However, Tilak Varma made his international debut for India last year after a stunning IPL season for Mumbai Indians. He bowled 12 overs overall and managed to claim two T20I wickets in the blue jersey. In 2022, when Tilak Varma was only 19, Rohit Sharma claimed he would soon be an all-format player for India as well.

SEE ALSO: Rohit Sharma comments on his retirement plans after quitting T20Is

With a few India A players leaving the team due to national duties for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, Tilak Varma could get a chance to play XI for the next game as well, which starts on September 12 as well.

“For every player, it’s a selection match. Duleep Trophy is a big tournament. But ultimately, you are a part of a team; we always play for everyone on the team,” Tilak said.

"We always want to win the match for our team" - Tilak Varma

However, Tilak Varma made his T20I debut against the West Indies at Tarouba in 2023 and did well. His first two scoring shots, off just the second and third balls he faced, were both sixes as well. Soon after, he earned his ODI debut, but in 2024, his progress was halted by a couple of freak hand injuries, putting his international career on hold for a brief period as well.

“Whatever the situation needs, we just need to bat according to that, and we always want to win the match for our team. If you play for the team and win the matches, there is always a place open in the [Indian] team. So, that’s where I focus, and whatever match I play, I just want to win. So, if I do well here, I think automatically I will reach the ultimate goal,” he concluded.

After a triumphant 2024 T20 World Cup, the Indian Cricket team is now focusing on its future prospects. With the retirement of leading players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja from the T20I format, the management is keen to test the new and emerging talent that has evolved from the IPL.

The upcoming Zimbabwe tour, a crucial series in the team’s rebuilding phase, is a significant opportunity for these players to prove their calibre and make a mark in the future of the Indian team. While a few players have been exceptional in the recent IPL stint, they haven’t made it to the tour squad. Here’s a list of the five deserving IPL performers who should have sealed a spot in the upcoming Zimbabwe tour.

1. T Natarajan

T Natarajan has been a vital pacer for the Sunrisers Hyderabad for a long time. His ability to bowl consecutive unplayable yorkers and quick speed deliveries have been instrumental in the Orange Army’s path of success. Natarajan was introduced to the world of International cricket during the 2021 India tour of Australia series. He was a part of all the formats and scalped crucial wickets for the team.

But, with regular injuries, he couldn’t get another International call. His 2024 IPL performance includes scalping 19 wickets in 14 encounters, making him SRH’s highest wicket-taker. As it implies, T Natarajan’s name not available in the upcoming tour has been a surprise for many, with a hope to find him in the upcoming tours.

2. Shashank Singh

Shashank Singh was the buzz of the town during the IPL 2024. He had a terrible experience after the IPL auction, as the Punjab Kings claimed they had signed the player by mistake. Shashank batted in the middle order and scored 354 runs in 14 matches, with a strike rate of 164.25. Despite playing a pivotal role in Punjab’s victories, the 32-year-old was left out of India’s selection for the forthcoming series against Zimbabwe.

This startled many fans, especially following his crucial and heroic efforts in leading the Punjab Kings to triumphs, including the most successful run-chase against the Kolkata Knight Riders. With his current recognition, seeing him compete on the local circuit and potentially earn his maiden international call in the coming days would be intriguing.

3. Tilak Varma

Tilak Varma was one of Mumbai Indians’ most dependable hitters in times of need and adversity. The left-handed hitter scored 416 runs with an average of 42 and a strike rate of 150. Varma emerged as one of the most appropriate names for the middle order.

Due to injury, Varma missed Mumbai’s final match of the season against the Lucknow Super Giants, but there’s no reason he wasn’t picked for this series. He began his international career with the West Indies tour and has played an essential part in bolstering the team’s batting order, with many hoping that he will turn the tables and change the course of the team’s middle-order batting.

Also Read: Team India honored by PM Modi for T20 World Cup 2024 triumph

4. Varun Chakravarthy

Varun Chakravarthy had a great run in the recently finished IPL season. As a member of the winning Kolkata Knight Riders’ third title trail, his moniker “Mystery Spinner” has aided the three-time champions in boosting their spin attack, which Sunil Narine, the spinmeister, leads.

He took 21 wickets in 15 matches and finished second in the edition’s wicket-taker standings. He last played a T20I for the country in 2021. Still, his improved performance has made him a deserving candidate for a position on the next Zimbabwe trip, especially given the team’s ambitions to have a solid spinner.

5. Rajat Patidar

Rajat Patidar has made a commendable comeback through the 2024 IPL. After getting recognition for hitting a game-changing century against the Lucknow Supergiants in the eliminator of the 2022 edition, many expected him to be the next big thing in India.

However, a significant injury hindered his game, which led him to get ruled out of the 2023 edition. His performance in the 2024 edition didn’t comprise high scores. But his swashbuckling approach has helped in obtaining crucial runs for the team. He has scored 395 runs in 15 matches in 2024, with an average of 30.38 and a 177.13 strike rate.

In today’s exciting match between the Mumbai Indians (MI) and the Punjab Kings (PBKS), both teams showcased thrilling performances on the field. MI set a formidable target of 193 runs for PBKS to chase after finishing their innings at 192/7 in 20 overs.

The match saw some intense moments, with Tilak attempting to slog the ball over long-on, only for it to hit the spider cam, resulting in a dead ball. However, Tilak persisted with his stroke, managing to score a single. Romario Shepherd’s dismissal of Shashank Singh at deep square brought a moment of jubilation for PBKS, with Harshal and Curran’s field-setting strategy proving effective.

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Surya Kumar and Tilak Varma show amazing performance

Surya Kumar Yadav displayed exceptional batting prowess, scoring 78 runs off 53 balls, while Tilak Varma contributed significantly with 34 runs off just 18 balls. Surya’s innings included some exquisite shots, including a boundary lofted over cover and a maximum sent to the top tier of the stands off Rabada’s bowling. Tilak also joined the party, smashing Rabada for a six over deep midwicket.

See Also: IPL 2024: Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan’s hug creates buzz on social media

Despite a scare when Rohit Sharma was struck on the helmet grill by a slower ball from Curran, MI managed to set a challenging target for PBKS. With both teams putting up impressive performances, the stage is set for an exciting chase as PBKS looks to chase down MI’s total and secure a victory in the IPL 2024 match.

With the 17th edition of IPL commencing on 22nd March, many cricket fanatics eagerly anticipate an intense and exciting summer cricketing clash between the Indian cities and states. The Mumbai Indians squad for the upcoming edition has primarily focused on revamping with the elements of young and emerging players that could benefit their future goals and aspirations.

As the team making a significant change of their five-time champion captain, Rohit Sharma, and giving the responsibility to Hardik Pandya, it is evident that the team is up to something about their plans. So, here is a list of the top four players to check out from the Mumbai Indians squad. 

Hardik Pandya

From a long run of rumours and speculations, Hardik Pandya finally got shifted from his previous squad, Gujarat Titans, to his first franchise, Mumbai Indians, in an all-cash deal of INR 15 Crore. Though many cricket fanatics were amused by the decision to make him the team’s captain, Hardik Pandya could be the significant initiator in the plans of Mumbai Indians.

Recently getting prone to injuries, Pandya is set to make a robust comeback as the team’s jack of all trades. In his 139-match IPL stint, he has made 2309 runs and scalped 53 wickets. 

Tilak Varma 

Tilak Varma has risen ever since his inclusion in the Mumbai Indians squad from the 2022 edition. With his ability to take the game deep and enhance their middle-order batting capacity, he became one of the top run-scorers in the team.

After back-to-back solid seasons, he earned his maiden T20I call-up for the series against West Indies, where he didn’t disappoint with the bat. His ability to switch gears alongside his useful off-breaks makes him a premium product in the arsenal’s setup. In his IPL career, he has made 740 runs in just 25 innings, with a commendable average of 38.95.

See also: IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Mumbai Indians

Gerald Coetzee

The South African quick gun Gerald Coetzee was one of Mumbai Indians’ initial auction choices for INR 5 crore. Coetzee played four T20Is and collected six wickets. He played his last 20-over match against India in 2023.

The 5-time winners are prominent for their fast bowling, which the club is working hard to enhance for the IPL 2024. The highlights of his first IPL season will be his quick pace and wicket-scalping technique in crucial moments.

Mohammad Nabi

Mohammad Nabi, regarded as one of Afghanistan’s finest cricketers, was a significant signing for MI in the auction, fetching INR 1.50 crore. Nabi, known as the Afghan T20 GOAT, has 3399 runs and 92 wickets in 118 matches. In his IPL stint, he made a commendable all-rounder contribution to SRH and KKR.

While Nabi’s IPL outings have been limited, his importance with MI is expected to grow dramatically. Nabi’s batting and bowling expertise and Piyush Chawla’s will be critical to MI’s success in the IPL 2024, bringing depth and balance to their team.

With the 17th edition of IPL commencing on 22nd March, many cricket fanatics eagerly anticipate an intense and exciting summer cricketing clash between the Indian cities and states. The Mumbai Indians squad for the upcoming edition has primarily focused on revamping with the elements of young and emerging players that could benefit their future goals and aspirations.

With the team making a significant change of their five-time champions captain, Rohit Sharma, and giving the responsibility to Hardik Pandya, it is evident that the team is up to something about their plans. So, here is a list of the top four players to check out from the Mumbai Indians squad.

Hardik Pandya

From a long run of rumours and speculations, Hardik Pandya shifted from his previous squad, Gujarat Titans, to his first franchise, Mumbai Indians, in an all-cash deal of INR 15 Crore. Though many cricket fanatics were amused by the decision to make him the team’s captain, Hardik Pandya could be the significant initiator in the plans of Mumbai Indians. Recently getting prone to injuries, Pandya is set to make a robust comeback as the team’s jack of all trades. In his 139-match IPL stint, he has made 2309 runs and scalped 53 wickets.

Tilak Varma

Tilak Varma has risen ever since his inclusion in the Mumbai Indians squad from the 2022 edition. With his ability to take the game deep and enhance their middle-order batting capacity, he became one of the top run-scorers in the team. After back-to-back solid seasons, he earned his maiden T20I call-up for the series against West Indies, where he didn’t disappoint with the bat. His ability to switch gears alongside his useful off-breaks makes him a premium product in the arsenal’s setup. In his IPL career, he has made 740 runs in just 25 innings, with a commendable average of 38.95.

See also: IPL 2024: Top 4 Chennai Super Kings players to be in focus

Gerald Coetzee

Gerald Coetzee, the South African quick gun, was one of Mumbai Indians’ initial auction choices for Rs 5 crore, with a base price of Rs 2 crore. Coetzee played four T20Is and collected six wickets. He played his last 20-over match against India in 2023. The five-time winners are well-known for their fast bowling, which the club is working hard to enhance for the IPL 2024. The Proteas pacer will support Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Madhwal, and Jason Behrendoff’s pace attack. The highlights of his first IPL season will be his quick pace and wicket-scalping technique in crucial moments.

Dilshan Madhushanaka

The Mumbai Indians spent Rs 4.6 crore on Sri Lanka’s left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka as their second pacer buy at the recent auction. In 14 T20 matches, the seamer has 14 wickets at an average of 30.93. It’s not unexpected that the addition of Sri Lankan pacer and South African quickie Gerald Coetzee has enhanced the Mumbai Indians’ pace-bowling department, which already has Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Madhwal, and Jason Behrendoff, to name a few. With this player’s debut, the five-time champion bowling team will become one of the tournament’s strongest.