Mumbai Indians prepare targeted auction moves to strengthen pace, spin and wicketkeeping depth
Mumbai
With only ₹2.75 crore left in their purse and five squad vacancies to fill, Mumbai Indians (MI) will enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction on December 16 in Abu Dhabi with a sharply defined, role-specific strategy. The franchise has retained its superstar core of Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma, but the release of four key players—Reece Topley, Lizaad Williams, Karn Sharma and Vignesh Puthur—has highlighted the areas MI must address: an overseas pacer, an Indian spinner, wicketkeeping depth and domestic fast-bowling support.
Despite their limited funds, MI are expected to prioritise balance over big-ticket buys. The franchise’s philosophy this season appears to centre on buying specialists rather than investing in marquee names, especially with established stars like Trent Boult, Mitchell Santner and Deepak Chahar already anchoring the squad.
Among the top overseas options, New Zealand’s Matt Henry stands out as a disciplined middle-overs strike bowler whose efficiency and affordability could suit MI’s budget. For spin, a potential reunion with Rahul Chahar offers familiarity with Wankhede’s conditions and a proven leg-spin option alongside Mayank Markande.
In domestic pace, MI may revisit Aqib Nabi, the left-arm swing bowler from Jammu & Kashmir whom the franchise has previously trialled. His powerplay wicket-taking ability makes him a cost-effective successor to Arjun Tendulkar. Simarjeet Singh, a reliable Indian seamer, also fits MI’s requirement for steady domestic fast bowling depth.
To bolster wicketkeeping backup, Prithvi Shaw—also an explosive opener—could be a strategic addition, especially if MI seek insurance behind primary keeper Ryan Rickelton.
With 20 players already secured, MI are expected to avoid aggressive bidding wars and focus on securing impact-driven uncapped talent to reinforce their campaign for a top-four finish in IPL 2026.