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Will Hardik Pandya Bench Rohit Sharma? Mumbai Indians’ Best XI for Clash Against KKR
Mumbai Indians Eye First Win in IPL 2025
The Mumbai Indians (MI) are set to take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their third match of IPL 2025 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. With Hardik Pandya leading the side, MI has endured a rough start to the season, losing their first two matches. As they seek to turn their campaign around, discussions have emerged about possible changes in the playing XI.
Should MI Drop Rohit Sharma?
Former MI captain and veteran batter Rohit Sharma has struggled to find form this season. His back-to-back failures—scoring a duck against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and just 8 runs against Gujarat Titans (GT)—have raised concerns about his place in the playing XI.
However, history favors Rohit, especially against KKR. The star opener has an impressive record against them, amassing 1,070 runs at an average of 39.63 with a strike rate of 128.14. Given his experience and past performances, MI may persist with him in the top order.
Alternatively, if Mumbai opts to bowl first, they might use Rohit as an impact player instead of starting with him, allowing for a more balanced team composition.
Vignesh Puthur and Will Jacks as Possible Inclusions
MI’s team selection has been inconsistent so far. Despite an impressive three-wicket haul against CSK, Vignesh Puthur was dropped for the match against GT, where Mujeeb Ur Rahman replaced him. However, Mujeeb managed just one wicket for 28 runs in two overs, leaving room for changes in the bowling department.
Given MI’s struggle with the bat, they might reintroduce Will Jacks to strengthen their batting. Jacks is an aggressive top-order batter who can also contribute with handy off-spin, providing flexibility in both batting and bowling.
Mumbai Indians’ Best XI for KKR Clash
If MI Bats First:
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Ryan Rickelton (WK)
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Rohit Sharma
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Will Jacks
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Suryakumar Yadav
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Tilak Varma
-
Naman Dhir
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Hardik Pandya (C)
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Mitchell Santner
-
Deepak Chahar
-
Vignesh Puthur
-
Trent Boult
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Impact Player: S Raju
If MI Bowls First:
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Ryan Rickelton
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Will Jacks
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Suryakumar Yadav
-
Tilak Varma
-
Naman Dhir
-
Hardik Pandya (C)
-
Mitchell Santner
-
Deepak Chahar
-
Vignesh Puthur
-
Trent Boult
-
S Raju
-
Impact Player: Rohit Sharma
Mumbai Indians face a must-win situation against KKR to stay competitive in IPL 2025. The selection dilemma around Rohit Sharma and the possible inclusion of Jacks and Puthur will be key talking points. Can MI find the right combination to secure their first win?
