I Support MI for Finals, They’re a Strong & Balanced Team: Dhawan
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been a thrilling ride so far, with several ups and downs for all the teams. After the Eliminator match between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) on Friday, former India cricketer and ex-Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shikhar Dhawan has thrown his weight behind MI, stating that they are a strong and well-balanced team that will go all the way to the finals.
In an exclusive interview, Dhawan praised MI’s performance in the tournament, saying, “The way they’ve gained momentum is outstanding. They are a very strong and well-balanced team.” His comments came after MI defeated GT by 6 wickets in a thrilling Eliminator match, setting up a Qualifier 2 clash against PBKS.
MI’s journey to the playoffs has been nothing short of remarkable. After a slow start to the season, the team has found its rhythm in the latter half of the tournament, winning seven out of their last nine matches. Their bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Jasprit Pattinson, has been particularly impressive, while their batting has been bolstered by the return of Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav from injury.
Dhawan’s admiration for MI is not hard to understand. The team’s ability to adapt to different situations and conditions has been a hallmark of their success. They have shown remarkable resilience, bouncing back from setbacks and losses to win crucial matches.
In contrast, PBKS’ journey to the playoffs has been marked by inconsistency. Despite having a strong batting lineup, the team has struggled to find consistency in their performances, winning just five out of their last nine matches. Dhawan, who led PBKS to the playoffs in 2023, knows the team well and will be aware of their strengths and weaknesses.
Despite the fact that PBKS will face MI in Qualifier 2, Dhawan’s comments are unlikely to be seen as a slight to his former team. In fact, his praise for MI is a testament to the team’s growth and development over the course of the tournament.
MI’s success this season can be attributed to their ability to gel as a unit. The team’s chemistry has been a key factor, with players from different backgrounds and cultures coming together to achieve a common goal. Their support staff, led by coach Mahela Jayawardene, has also played a crucial role in the team’s success.
For PBKS, the Qualifier 2 match against MI will be a tough ask. The team will need to up their game significantly if they are to overcome the defending champions. Dhawan, who has played against MI several times in his career, knows the team’s strengths and will be aware of the challenges that lie ahead.
In conclusion, Shikhar Dhawan’s comments are a testament to MI’s growth and development as a team. The team’s ability to adapt to different situations and conditions has been a hallmark of their success, and they will be confident of winning the title for the sixth time in their history. PBKS, on the other hand, will need to regroup and refocus if they are to make a comeback in the tournament.
