IPL 2025: Trent Boult picks 'key player' for Mumbai Indians over Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah

From the bottom of the points table to now at number 3, Mumbai Indians (MI) is back on their track, which can lead them to the play-offs. New Zealand and MI experienced pacer Trent Boult, who picked out four wickets in the last outing against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, believes that Rohit Sharma will play a key role in the second half of the ongoing IPL 2025. 

After a substandard start in the initial part of the current season, the five-time IPL champion franchise took their time and came back with rhythm on the field at the right moment. Slowly but steadily, the Mumbai Indians have shown their tactical moves brilliantly. The win against their arch nemesis, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), was pointed out as a crucial result for the Hardik Pandya-led side. MI outclassed CSK in the easiest way possible. Mumbai chased down Super Kings' 176 by 9 wickets. The player of the match, Rohit Sharma, played an unbeaten 76 off 45 balls. Sharma was looking dangerous at the top order with his opening partner Ryan Rickelton. 

Following the Chennai Super Kings match, SRH also could not do much against MI. Again, Rohit proved his elegance by scoring 70, facing only 46 deliveries. Trent Boult, the best player of the SRH vs. MI match, who took 4 wickets in his 4 overs quota in exchange for 26 runs, said that Sharma's recent form is an asset for the team. 

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Trent Boult was full of praise for Rohit's present form, and that he is playing exceptionally well and making a timely return to peak performance. Boult stated that Rohit's contributions with the bat are important, and coming at a critical time in the tournament. Boult said he does not doubt that Rohit will make a big contribution in the last half of the season. Boult mentioned Rohit's leadership and form, and would have a big say on their momentum and success going into the games.Rohit Sharma has so far claimed 228 runs in his first eight outings of IPL 2025, including a 76* at an average of 32.57. Mumbai Indians' next encounter will be against Lucknow Super Giants, set to be held on April 27 at Wankhede Stadium. 

"Rohit is doing a fantastic job at the moment—he is playing well and timing his return to form perfectly. He is going to be key for us in the second half of the season," Boult said.