Mumbai Indians' skipper Hardik Pandya has expressed his satisfaction with the team's acquisitions from the recently concluded IPL 2025 mega-auction, stating that they have successfully assembled a squad with the "right mix" of seasoned players and promising youngsters.
In a video posted on MI's official social media channels, Pandya acknowledged the inherent challenges of the auction process. He emphasized that maintaining emotional control is crucial as franchises strive to build a complete team. "The auction dynamics are always tricky," he explained. "When you are watching it live, emotions run high because you want this player but sometimes you just lose out. It's very important not to be overly emotional and in the end, we have to create a whole team."
Pandya revealed that he maintained constant communication with the coaching staff throughout the auction process, strategically targeting specific players they desired. He believes the final squad reflects this meticulous planning, boasting a blend of experience and youthful exuberance.
"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 and how the team is looking," he said. "We have found the right mix, which is experienced players like Boulty is back, Deepak Chahar, who has been around, and at the same time, young guns like Will Jacks, Robin Minz and Rickelton, who are fresh. So I think we have done pretty well. We have covered all the bases."
Pandya extended a heartfelt message to the new talent joining the MI ranks, drawing upon his own journey as a budding cricketer when he was initially scouted by Mumbai Indians. He emphasized that the scouts have identified their potential and urged them to embrace the opportunity to train hard and flourish within the team's supportive environment.
"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 said. "They found me, they found Jasprit, they found Krunal, they found Tilak. They all eventually played for the country. All you have to do is show up, train, work hard and the best part is that Mumbai Indians has the facility to make them flourish."
As a leader, Pandya expressed his commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for the new recruits, ensuring they feel valued and a part of the MI family. He emphasized that the franchise will go the extra mile to make them feel at home.
"There are new faces who are going to come from new franchises," he said. "As Mumbai Indians, we're going to make sure that they feel at home and that they belong here."