Mumbai Indians have done what they do best—come back from the brink. After a poor start in IPL 2025, they turned things around with a series of strong performances to clinch the final playoff spot.
Their 59-run win over Delhi Capitals at Wankhede sealed the deal, showing this team’s grit and experience still run deep.
The Turning Point: Desperation Sparks Revival
The comeback started in Delhi, ironically against the same team they defeated to secure their playoff place. Mumbai was battered early in the season—one win in five games, a new captain in Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah just returning from injury. They looked lost. But in a nail-biter, three runouts in the last over gave them a barely-there win that sparked a winning streak.
From there, Mumbai won six of their next seven games. That shaky victory wasn’t luck—it was the start of belief taking hold.
Bowling Firepower Brings Control
Much of Mumbai’s revival came from improved bowling. Deepak Chahar and Trent Boult were lightning at the start, snatching 23 wickets in the Powerplay. Early wickets set the tone, like knocking out the Royals at 21/3 or the Knight Riders at 26/4. This new-ball aggression put pressure on opponents from the first ball.
Then Bumrah returned. His economy rate dropped from a worrying 11.18 to a tight 9.07 in death overs. His skill and calm at key moments turned matches. With tighter lines and smarter fields, Mumbai’s dot-ball percentage jumped to 41%, showing they controlled games by slowing opponents’ scoring chances.
Surya Leads the Batting Charge
Batting was shaky early on, but Suryakumar Yadav changed the story. Surya scored over 580 runs with a strike rate above 170, smashing 13 consecutive 25+ scores—the longest streak in IPL history. His unbeaten 73 against Delhi was pure class.
Support came from Ryan Rickelton, Tilak Varma, and lower-order hero Naman Dhir. They all chipped in with important runs. Rohit Sharma steadied the ship when needed, and Will Jacks added firepower at No. 3 and useful overs with the ball. This team stopped relying on one star—they started functioning like a well-oiled machine.
Hardik’s Leadership Grows Stronger
Taking over from Rohit Sharma was never easy for Hardik Pandya. Early boos showed fans’ doubts. But as the team started winning, Pandya’s captaincy shone. He sharpened his tactics and grew more confident in managing his bowlers and field settings. His calm leadership helped the team shake off pressure and play with swagger.
Fans Reignite the Wankhede Spirit
Mumbai fans went from frustration to frenzy. Early-season boos turned into loud cheers of “Hardik! Surya! Rohit!” The atmosphere at Wankhede Stadium became electric again. Social media buzzed with memes and support, showing how much the team means to its fans.
A sea of blue. A salute of gratitude 💙#MI walk the Wankhede one last time this season, with a playoff ticket in hand 🏟#TATAIPL | #MIvDC | @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/yHX3m4cYH3
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 21, 2025
Mumbai Indians may not top the points table, but they enter the playoffs with momentum and confidence. New players like Jonny Bairstow and Richard Gleeson join as temporary replacements for those on national duty. Integrating them won’t be easy, but this Mumbai team thrives on challenges.
Underestimate Mumbai Indians at your own risk. This team’s history of fighting back is as strong as ever. The door Delhi Capitals opened in April was kicked wide open by Mumbai—and now, they’re charging through it with purpose.
Also Read Ahmedabad Set to Host IPL Final Again — And It’s More Than Just a Stadium
