The 5 time IPL Champions, Mumbai Indians (MI) have not just been impressive on the field making and breaking records. With their exceptional ability to identify and nurture young cricketing talent, have significantly contributed to not just their success in the Indian Premier League (IPL), but have also unearthed match winners for India.
MI’s scouting network is renowned for its diligence and reach. They have dedicated teams assigned to various regions, to monitor domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Ranji Trophy, to identify emerging talent. Former cricketers and talent scouts such as Kiran More, Abey Kuruvila, TA Sekar, John Wright, etc. follow a process where they observe a player’s performances over multiple seasons, before recommending them.
They conduct detailed analysis of various aspects such as strike rate, bowling variations, fitness level and mental strength, before shortlisting them for MI’s training camp. They are guided under the supervision of the head coach, Director of Cricket Operations and senior players. This has ensured a continuous influx of promising players into their squad and has also played a huge role in accelerating the careers of many Indian cricketers towards National recognition.
Indian Team Players Who got Recognition Through MI’s Robust Scouting System:
- Jasprit Bumrah: Topping the international bowling charts, Bumrah has been MI’s most renowned find. Bumrah was scouted by former coach John Wright. Though currently out of play due to injury, his unorthodox action and hitting the right line and length more often than not for the situation, have made him a key player for MI and the Indian team.
- Hardik and Krunal Pandya: The Pandya brothers were relatively unknown before MI recognized their potential. They have both been instrumental in MI’s multiple title wins. Hardik’s explosive all-round abilities have been just the thing the Indian Team needed in the middle order to balance the side.
- Tilak Varma: Hailing from Hyderabad, Varma was picked up by MI in 2022. Within a year he was picked up for the Indian T20I side, thanks to his consistent match winning performances earned him a spot in the Indian T20I side. In 2024 series against South Africa series, he smashed an unbeaten 120 runs off just 47 balls, and became the first ever cricketer to remain unbeaten on two consecutive T20I centuries.
This year too MI has been creating a lot of excitement with their finds for this season:
- Ashwani Kumar: A 23-year-old left-arm pacer from Punjab was discovered during the Sher-E-Punjab T20 Championship. Ashwani has made an immediate impact by recording figures of 4-24 in his debut match against the Kolkata Knight Riders, showcasing his pace and swing.
- Vignesh Puthur: A left-arm wrist spinner from Kerala, made his debut against their rivals, Chennai Super Kings, where he claimed 3-32. He received a pat of acknowledgement from Dhoni himself, which set the internet ablaze, announcing his arrival in style!
MI’s success in talent scouting has set a benchmark in the IPL. Their unwavering commitment towards discovering and fostering young talent has not only bolstered their own success but has also enriched Indian cricket by providing a platform for emerging players to shine on the global stage.
Who do you think is the find of this season?
