IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya to Tilak Varma, 3 Mumbai Indians Players Who Did Well in SMAT 2024

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IPL 2025: The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 saw several Mumbai Indians stars making significant contributions to their respective teams. Among them, Hardik Pandya, the franchise’s captain, led by example with his stellar performances for Baroda.

Mumbai Indians have always valued players with match-winning potential, and Tilak Varma continued his rise as one of the brightest young talents. His record-breaking feats in Hyderabad’s campaign further highlight his importance to the franchise heading into IPL 2025.

Here’s a look at three Mumbai Indians players who excelled in SMAT 2024.

Hardik Pandya – Leading by Example

Retained for INR 16.35 crore, Hardik Pandya proved his worth in SMAT 2024 with an all-round performance that underlined his class. Representing Baroda, he scored 246 runs in seven matches at a brilliant strike rate of 193.70, including two half-centuries and a top score of 74*.

He averaged an impressive 49.20 with the bat while also contributing six wickets with the ball, including standout figures of 3/27 against Bengal.

Hardik’s performances were instrumental in Baroda’s campaign, and his ability to deliver under pressure was on full display. These displays reaffirm his readiness to lead Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025 after a slightly underwhelming season last year. With his batting and bowling peaking at the right time, Pandya is set to be the driving force for MI.

Tilak Varma – Hyderabad’s Run Machine

Tilak Varma, retained for ₹8 crore, had a phenomenal tournament for Hyderabad. In seven matches, Tilak amassed 327 runs at an average of 65.40 and a strike rate of 169.43, including one century and two fifties. His sensational knock of 151 off just 67 balls against Meghalaya broke multiple records, including the highest individual score in SMAT history.

Tilak’s consistency and ability to score at a rapid pace make him a cornerstone for Mumbai Indians. After back-to-back centuries in T20Is earlier this year, his SMAT performances reinforce his readiness to dominate IPL 2025. With his confidence sky-high, Tilak will be eager to replicate his domestic success on the IPL stage.

Raj Bawa – A Promising All-Rounder

Bought for ₹30 lakh, Raj Angad Bawa made an impact for Chandigarh in SMAT 2024. The young all-rounder scored 171 runs, including a vital half-century, and picked up 12 wickets across seven matches. His standout performance came against Assam, where he scored 37 runs and took 3/28 to help his team secure a win.

Raj’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable backup option for Mumbai Indians. While he may not be a regular starter, his performances in SMAT suggest he has the potential to make significant contributions when called upon.

Notable Mentions

Naman Dhir impressed for Punjab, particularly with the ball. He delivered a match-winning performance against Hyderabad, taking 5/19 in a crucial encounter. His versatility could make him an exciting prospect for the future.

Suryakumar Yadav played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s title-winning campaign. In the final, his knock of 48 off 35 balls, featuring three sixes, was instrumental in chasing down a challenging target of 175. Meanwhile, Deepak Chahar stood out with his disciplined bowling, picking up six wickets in six matches, showcasing his reliability with the ball.