Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is eagerly awaiting the new IPL season. He has expressed his excitement about welcoming new players to the team and also thanked those who have left. Describing the auction process as a “rollercoaster,” Hardik shared his views on its emotional highs and lows. In a video uploaded by Mumbai Indians on Twitter, the all-rounder reflected his opinion on the IPL 2025 auction.
“The auction dynamics are always tricky. You know, when you are watching it live, it is very exciting, and the emotions are always up and down because you want this player but sometimes you just lose,” Hardik noted, emphasising the importance of maintaining composure. “It’s very important to not get too emotional, and in the end, we have to create a whole team.”
Involvement in team building
Hardik spoke about his active involvement in the team-building process, keeping in touch with the coaching staff regarding the players they were eyeing. He believes that the team has successfully struck the right balance of youth and experience. “I was in touch with the table as well, exactly who we are going for, and I think we came out pretty well from the auction,” he said. “We have found the right mix, with experienced players like Boulty coming back, Deepak Chahar, who has been around, and at the same time, young guns like Will Jacks, Robin Minz, and Rickelton, who are fresh.” he added.
The goodbyes are hard
Reflecting on his shift from Mumbai Indians to Gujarat Titans and then returning, Hardik acknowledged the challenges involved. “It’s always difficult to leave a franchise where you have created a lot of memories, you have won games, you have won trophies. You have years old of friendship, then you have to go to a new team and start fresh. I know how difficult it can be.”
Message to young talents
Hardik also shared a personal message for the newcomers, reflecting on his own journey with the Mumbai Indians. “My message to all the young guns who are joining Mumbai Indians this year is that if you are here, you have that spark, you have that talent, which the scouts have seen,” he advised. “All you have to do is show up, train, work hard, and the best part is that Mumbai Indians has the facilities to help them flourish.” he stated.
Creating a welcoming environment
As a leader, Hardik emphasised making new players feel welcome and appreciated. “There are new faces who are going to come from new franchises. As Mumbai Indians, we’re going to make sure that they feel at home and that they belong here.”
Hardik, reflecting on team composition
Discussing the team MI has assembled for this season, Hardik highlighted, “We’ve found the right mix – experienced players like Boult are back, and Deepak Chahar, who has been performing well, is also in the squad. At the same time, we have young talents like Will Jacks, Robin Minz, and a fresh energy in the team. I believe we’ve created a strong combination with the right balance, which is sure to make a difference.”
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