3 changes Mumbai Indians should make ahead of IPL 2027

Mumbai Indians (MI) had one of their worst Indian Premier League (IPL) campaigns this year as they finished ninth on the points table.

Last year, MI reached the playoffs with a comparatively weaker team. They made some key signings at the IPL 2026 mini-auction and looked like a solid team on paper. However, that did not translate into results on the field.

Despite having several big names in the contingent, MI did not play as a cohesive unit. There seemed a lack of clarity in terms of the roles assigned to the players. Form and injury concerns also hurt the team.

On this note, let’s look at three changes that MI need to make to turn things around.

Here are 3 changes MI should make ahead of IPL 2027:

3. Solid support for Jasprit Bumrah

Mumbai Indians’ campaign was hurt by Jasprit Bumrah‘s dismal form. He picked up three wickets in his maiden season in 2013 and as many in 2015. However, he had played only six matches aross the two seasons.

This season, Bumrah only managed to take four scalps in 13 matches at a mind-boggling average of 102.50. While his economy rate of 8.37 was decent, MI needed him to be among the wickets rather than restricting runs.

Here is where the five-time champions lacked an enforcer, especially with the new ball. MI would do well to search for someone who can play a good supporting role to Bumrah. Trent Boult was expected to take that responsibility, but he had an abysmal campaign.

2. Refocus on scouting talents

The likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya were scouted by MI. They were one of the best teams when it came to scouting. However, in recent times, they have relied more on experienced cricketers.

They had a few youngsters in their side who could have been given opportunities, especially when they were eliminated with a few games to spares. However, they decided to continue with the veterans. MI would want to keep a close eye on the domestic season and look for talented youngsters who can potentially serve the team for years to come.

1. Sort the captaincy conundrum

Hardik Pandya took the team to the playoffs last season. However, in IPL 2026, he seemed to lose control of the team and the lack of form for key players did not help his cause. However, there was palpable role clarity as well.

Hardik also had a dismal season by his lofty standards. He is someone who likes to lead by example. That was visible when he led the Gujarat Titans to back-to-back finals. Several reports suggest that Hardik’s tenure at MI could be all but over. If the reports turn out to be true, MI will have to make an important decision, which could play a critical role in shaping the future of the franchise.