Star-struck coaching staff, strong bunch of domestic talent, ‘we are a family’ syndrome and MI Paltan. These four qualities have emerged to be quintessential constants during Mumbai Indians’ journey from being the most expensive to the most successful IPL franchise over the last decade.
As Mumbai Indians strive to repeat Chennai Super Kings’ feat of successive IPL titles by keeping the crown in the eleventh edition, Rohit Sharma’s men will be banking on these four vital aspects to bring them glory.
Coaching staff: The joke among IPL circles is that the MI coaching staff can compete with any other IPL team even on the field. And the strong group — led by head coach Mahela Jayawardene — has seen the addition of Lasith Malinga. After wreaking havoc for a decade, the highest wicket-taker in IPL history will continue to hone the skills of youngsters as bowling mentor this time around.
Domestic pool: From the likes of Dhawal Kulkarni, Saurabh Tiwary and Ambati Rayudu early on till the Pandya brothers and Jaspirt Bumrah, MI has played a vital role in giving opportunities and honing the skills of talented domestic players. The team has stuck to its policy by signing promising youngsters like Ishan Kishan, Anukul Roy and Rahul Chahar this season.
We are a family: Just like a successful Bollywood production house, Mumbai Indians has always boasted the “we-are-family” tune as key for its success. The previous record with the team reflected in MI’s auction strategy as 11 players signed for the 2018 edition, including the five retained, have been an integral part of MI at some point or the other over the first 10 editions.
Add to that Mitchell McClenaghan who was recently drafted in as Jason Behrendoff’s replacement and 12 of the 25 players on its roster will not be wearing the MI Blues for the first time. And that should be a huge advantage going into a season with revamped teams.
MI Paltan: Despite having completed 10 editions, not every IPL team enjoys a huge fan base and a permanent home. MI — along with the CSK and RCB — has been able to create a strong connect with the local fans. No wonder then that the MI Paltan — the fan army — more often than not acts as the 12th man whenever MI takes the field at the Wankhede Stadium.
If all these four factors continue to chip in with valuable roles and aid the tried and tested prolific performers, Mumbai Indians will surely be a strong contender to lift the trophy this season.
