The Mumbai Indians’ disappointing exit from IPL 2025 has sparked intense discussion and criticism, particularly focusing on the team’s leadership, including veteran Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Following another underwhelming campaign, questions surrounding team balance, internal dynamics, and leadership clarity have once again taken center stage.
After failing to progress past Qualifier 2, where they suffered a five-wicket defeat at the hands of Punjab Kings, fans and former players didn’t hold back. The loss followed a season marked by inconsistency, off-field noise, and visible discomfort within the playing group — especially regarding the leadership transition between Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya.
Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians as captain in 2024 — replacing Rohit, who had guided the franchise to five IPL titles — was a move that divided opinions from the outset. While intended to signal a new era for MI, it instead brought controversy, with rumors of a rift in the dressing room and uncertain team chemistry plaguing the squad for two consecutive seasons.
Even in 2025, despite finishing in the top four, Mumbai’s campaign was marred by on-field inconsistencies and strategic missteps. The middle order failed to fire under pressure, death bowling lacked sharpness, and neither Rohit nor Pandya managed to deliver defining performances when the stakes were high.
Rohit Sharma, in particular, struggled to make meaningful contributions during the playoffs. In the crucial knockout match, his early dismissal for just 8 runs was a major setback. Fans expected him to bring calm and experience, but his performance fell short. Though still seen as a respected figure within the team, questions are being raised about his current role — as both a player and a potential silent leader operating in the shadows of official captaincy.
Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya’s leadership remains under scrutiny. While he showcased glimpses of his all-round brilliance throughout the tournament, he failed to rally the team during crunch situations. Critics argue that Pandya, despite his talent, has not yet fully matured into a leader capable of uniting a high-profile franchise like Mumbai Indians.
Former players have also weighed in, with some stating bluntly that “Mumbai is still not able to recover from the leadership confusion.” Others pointed to a lack of synergy between the old and new guard, noting that the team’s direction seemed “clouded” and “unsettled” throughout the season.
With the 2025 IPL season now in the rearview mirror, the franchise faces tough questions. Will MI double down on their youth-led strategy, or will they revert to a more experienced leadership approach? Does Rohit Sharma still have a role to play, and is Pandya the long-term captain the franchise can trust?
What’s clear is that Mumbai Indians, once a benchmark for consistency and dominance, are now in a state of transition. The road ahead will require bold decisions — and most importantly, unity. Whether that includes both Sharma and Pandya, or a fresh face altogether, remains to be seen.