Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu, a six-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champion with three titles each for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI), has unveiled his predicted playing XI for MI ahead of the IPL 2025 season.
MI will kick off their campaign on March 23 against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, followed by a high-stakes clash against Gujarat Titans (GT) on March 29. However, MI faces early challenges as captain Hardik Pandya is sidelined for the season opener due to a one-match ban. Additionally, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is expected to miss the initial matches as he continues his recovery from a lower back injury. Despite these setbacks, Rayudu remains confident in MI’s squad, believing they have the potential to go all the way in IPL 2025.
Ambati Rayudu Predicts Mumbai Indians’ Probable XI for IPL 2025
MI’s Solid Top and Middle Order
Rayudu has backed Rohit Sharma to open the innings, partnering with Ryan Rickelton at the top. The South African wicketkeeper-batter, acquired by MI for INR 1 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, offers an aggressive left-handed option and adds flexibility with his wicketkeeping skills.
Rickelton’s stellar form in domestic cricket and his dual role make him a valuable asset. Rayudu emphasized that Rickelton’s inclusion will strengthen MI’s wicketkeeping options.
“I guess Ryan Rickelton will open with Rohit Sharma, as he can keep the wickets as well,” Rayudu stated in a video shared by Star Sports on X.
For the No. 3 and No. 4 positions, Rayudu has chosen Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav. Tilak, known for his consistency and aggressive stroke play, is expected to anchor the innings while accelerating when needed. Meanwhile, Suryakumar, MI’s Mr. 360, remains a pivotal player in the batting lineup. Despite an injury scare late last year, he has recovered in time for IPL 2025 and will be crucial in MI’s pursuit of a record-extending sixth title. His innovative stroke play and dominance against spinners make him an ideal No. 4 batter.
“Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav will bat at three and four depending upon the left-right combination,” Rayudu added.
Also READ: MI Full Squad, IPL 2025 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Players List, Broadcast and Live Streaming Details
Dynamic All-Rounders and Lethal Bowling Attack
At No. 5, captain Hardik Pandya is set to anchor the middle order. His finishing skills and all-round capabilities make him indispensable. Rayudu has named Naman Dhir at No. 6, a promising young batter retained by MI. Dhir’s aggressive approach and domestic cricket performances position him as an X-factor for MI.
At No. 7, Rayudu has selected New Zealand’s white-ball captain, Mitchell Santner, signed by MI to bolster their all-round department. Santner’s ability to bowl tight spells and contribute quick runs with the bat adds depth to the lower order.
Despite injury concerns, Jasprit Bumrah remains MI’s premier fast bowler. Rayudu expects him to return at full strength after missing IPL 2023 due to a back injury. Bumrah’s match-winning performances in IPL 2024, where he claimed 20 wickets, will be pivotal for MI’s success.
Joining Bumrah is Trent Boult, a proven T20 performer. The Kiwi pacer, who played a key role in MI’s 2020 title win, returns to the franchise after a stint with Rajasthan Royals. His ability to swing the new ball and pick early wickets makes him invaluable.
Completing the pace trio is Deepak Chahar, whom MI secured in the IPL 2025 mega auction. The former CSK pacer is renowned for his powerplay prowess, and MI will rely on him for early breakthroughs.
Rayudu also mentioned that the final bowling spot will be filled by a young Indian pacer, chosen as an Impact Player based on conditions and opposition.
“Mitchell Santner (at No. 7), then (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Trent) Boult, and Deepak Chahar. The remaining place will go to a young Indian player as the impact player depending upon the conditions,” Rayudu concluded.
