With the Mumbai Indians (MI) facing almost certain elimination from IPL 2024, fans have called for the team to rest key players like Jasprit Bumrah before the T20 World Cup. However, MI has made it clear that their current focus remains on the IPL.
Team India Fans advocate for resting Jasprit Bumrah
MI’s elimination from the IPL playoffs seems highly likely, as they currently sit near the bottom of the table. This has led fans to urge the team to prioritize the upcoming T20 World Cup by giving key players like Jasprit Bumrah a break. With the first group of players departing for the USA on May 21st, resting Bumrah in the remaining IPL matches could be beneficial.
MI Focused on Completing IPL 2024
Following their recent win against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, MI batting coach Kieron Pollard addressed the issue of player rest. He emphasized that player conversations regarding the T20 World Cup are not currently a priority for the team.
Pollard highlighted the importance of maintaining focus on the IPL and avoiding distractions that could impact performance. He stated that discussions about player workload would be best addressed after the IPL concludes.
On conversations, regarding giving Jasprit Bumrah a break, batting coach Kieron Pollard in the post-match press conference said:
“I didnt have any conversation personally. That’ss not my role and function at the moment in the time. But lets see what happens at the end of the day. We all are here to play entire IPL. Sometimes when we see too far ahead on different things, thinking about World Cups, These things could affect performances even before the team (India squad) was selected. So for us the most important thing in all account is to finish the IPL and let’s see what happens after that. He leaves the IPL and go to Indian Team. I think that;s where that conversation will take place. For right now we have two games to play (in IPL) and we have to play for that pride and passion and for this badge that has given us a lot over the years.“
MI Prioritizes IPL over T20 World Cup
Kieron Pollard reiterated that MI’s current focus is solely on finishing the IPL season on a strong note. He confirmed that the team’s final match is on May 17th, which allows ample time for players to rest and prepare for the T20 World Cup.
“We are currently here, only thinking about the IPL not the World Cup. Our final game is on 17th May and after that there is lots of game for the guys to rest and comfortably play the first match for India.”
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Tricky Situation
The decision to rest players can be a delicate balancing act. While rest is crucial to prevent injuries and ensure players are fresh for the World Cup, maintaining momentum and form is also important. MI appears committed to finishing the IPL season on a high note, trusting this approach will benefit their players in the upcoming World Cup.
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