Top 5 players MI might target in mini auction

The Mumbai Indians, a stalwart team in IPL history, secured the fourth position in the 2023 IPL and triumphed over Lucknow Super Giants in the Eliminator. Led by Rohit Sharma, the team boasts an impressive track record with five titles in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020. After three seasons without an IPL title, MI aims for a strong comeback in the 2024 season.

The team made strategic moves, releasing 11 players, trading Cameron Green, and acquiring talents like Hardik Pandya and Romario Shepherd. With a purse of approximately INR 17.75 crore and 8 available slots, MI enters the IPL 2024 auction prepared for strategic acquisitions. The auction, scheduled for December 19, 2023, will be historic as the first conducted outside India at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena. Come to the auction, let us look at options that the Mumbai Indians can explore in the upcoming auction;

#5. Gerald Coetzee

The dynamic South African pacer, Gerald Coetzee has become a notable name in the cricketing world, especially after his outstanding performance in the recently concluded World Cup 2023. His impressive display has garnered attention, positioning him as a potential target for MI. Coetzee’s combination of pace and precision in bowling could introduce a new dimension to MI’s already formidable bowling attack. With MI opting to leave out Jofra Archer, the inclusion of Gerald Coetzee with make their bowling look even more lethal.

#3. Pat Cummins

Australia’s ODI and Test captain, Pat Cummins, has entered the IPL 2024 auction and will also be on the radar of Mumbai Indians (MI). The former Kolkata Knight Riders player is seen as a potential replacement for Jofra Archer, bringing his reputation as one of the top fast bowlers. Cummins could form a formidable partnership with Jasprit Bumrah. Moreover, the 30-year-old’s batting skills add versatility, making him a valuable asset for the team.

#2. Mitchell Starc

The anticipation around the IPL 2024 auction centres on the potential inclusion of Australian standout Mitchell Starc. Known for his deadly pace and swing, the left-arm pacer is a sought-after asset in the upcoming event. Mumbai Indians, with a history of securing impactful fast bowlers, may target the 33-year-old to enhance their already potent bowling lineup.

Mumbai Indians are likely to pursue Mitchell Starc in IPL 2024, marking his return after his last appearance in IPL 2015. Starc, a key figure in international cricket like Archer, showcased his brilliance on Indian soil during the recent ICC World Cup 2023 and the India vs Australia ODI series in March, emerging as the highest wicket-taker from both teams.

#1. Josh Hazlewood

Another Aussie on the list for Mumbai Indians will be Josh Hazlewood. In the upcoming auction, Mumbai Indians might make substantial investments in Josh Hazlewood, known for his disciplined pace bowling. A potent fast-bowling duo consisting of Bumrah and Hazlewood could evoke memories of MI’s victorious 2020 IPL campaign, where Bumrah and Trent Boult played pivotal roles in securing their fifth title. The 32-year-old Australian has an IPL career record of 35 wickets in 27 matches with an economy rate of 8.06.

Shardul Thakur

Another Mumbaikar who MI will be targeting will be Shardul Thakur. In a surprising yet strategic move, MI might shift their focus to the Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Despite a lacklustre performance in the last IPL season, Shardul’s proven ability to deliver impactful performances with both bat and ball could be recognized by MI. The franchise might see the 32-year-old as a potential match-winner for them.