The Mumbai Indians made a lot of improvements in the ranks after appointing Hardik Pandya as their captain before the 2024 season of the Indian Premier League. They were on the verge of playing the IPL 2025 final after a disappointing start during the beginning of the tournament. From back-to-back defeats to the Qualifier 2 match of IPL 2025, the five-time IPL champions proved their mettle.

Before last season's mega auction, the MI management held on to their key players like Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Pandya. Yadav and Bumrah present stellar performances throughout the season, while the other three players continued in big times.

According to the latest predictions, before the mini auction of IPL 2026, the Mumbai-based franchise can release some of the big names from their squad to generate some more money. Deepak Chahar's future with the Mumbai Indians, as of now, is under scrutiny. The experienced Indian pacer can be dropped ahead of the auction, as per media reports. By releasing Chahar, they can manage to fetch a good amount of money for the auction.

Read More: WATCH: Viral video of little boy on KBC stage making comments on Rohit Sharma amid IND vs AUS series

Should Mumbai Indians let Deepak Chahar go before IPL 2026?

Chahar's move from Chennai Super Kings to Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2025 proved ineffective, as he claimed only 11 wickets in 14 matches at an economy rate of 9.17, which was costly for a star cricketer. The Mumbai Indians can also try to find a proper replacement for Jasprit Bumrah.

Bumrah performed well throughout the season, but his recent workload issue can force the management to think in a different way. It was proved that Chahar was not the suitable replacement for Bumrah. They may have to spend some money in rebuilding the overseas pace bowling attack as well. 

List of players Mumbai Indians can release ahead of IPL 2026: 

• AM Ghazanfar (Rs 4.8 crore)

• Deepak Chahar (Rs 9.25 crore)

• Lizaad Williams (Rs 75 Lakh)

• Bevon Jacobs (Rs 30 Lakh)

Popular television reality show 'Big Boss 19' just got extra mileage as Indian cricket star Deepak Chahar arrived on the stage with Salman Khan. The reality show was already on top of the TRP list, about to get a wild card entry in the house.

Who would be the new member? That was the question hovering around the followers of the show. It was heavily speculated that Malti Chahar could be the wild card entry. Who is Matli Chahar? She is the sister of star cricketer Deepak Chahar. As it was known that Deepak has come to send his sister Malti into the Bigg Boss 19 house and cheer her up.

A video has recently gone viral on the internet where we can see Deepak sharing the Big Boss 19 stage with Bollywood hero Salman Khan, also the host of the show. According to various news reports, Deepak Chahar will be seen on Weekend Ka Vaar this time. Salman Khan will be playing cricket with him on the Bigg Boss 19 stage.

Read More: [WATCH] Abrar Ahmed reveals desire to punch this Indian star as video goes viral

Deepak Chahar and Salman Khan playing cricket together 

The maker of the show has recently released a promo video for the Weekend Ka Vaar segment. The video has already achieved a lot of attention from the netizens. The video starts with Salman Khan introducing Deepak Chahar as the specialist T20 spin bowler. And then revealed the second wildcard entry of the show, which is Malti Chahar.

The cricketer instantly won everyone's heart with the appearance. After arriving on the stage, he turned the floor into a cricket pitch. He then played cricket with Salman Khan. Deepak was bowling while Salman's focus was on hitting boundaries and sixes. 

Deepak Chahar has featured in 13 ODI matches in which he scored 203 runs at an average of 33.83 and took 16 wickets at an average of 30.56, with best bowling figures of 3/27. In T20 Internationals, he played 25 matches, scored 53 runs at an average of 26.50 and claimed 31 wickets at an average of 24.09.

Watch the viral video of Deepak Chahar in Big Boss: 

#WeekendKaVaar Promo - Indian Team Cricketer Deepak Chahar in Bigg Boss 19 (to introduce his sister Malti Chahar as Wild Card)pic.twitter.com/vPi2Fp0WXS

— BBTak (@BiggBoss_Tak) October 4, 2025

A few days ago, the cameras found the left-arm spinner, Harpreet Brar, in the net session of the Indian team before the third Test of the five-match series against England at Lord’s. Now, a Mumbai Indians (MI) star player has attended the practice session on the eve of the contest, as the visitors eye to take a lead of 2-1 after their mammoth 336-run victory at Edgbaston in Birmingham. 

Deepak Chahar is the all-rounder of the Mumbai side as he went through a few drills during the side’s practice session. The last time he was seen in action was in the field during the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing the five-time champions in May. He has the brilliant skill of swinging the new ball and picking up wickets in the first few overs.

SEE ALSO: Major Updates from Rishabh Pant's press conference ahead of ENG vs IND Lord's Test

After spending seven seasons with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since 2018, Deepak switched his franchise and got signed for a price of INR 9.25 crore during the mega auction last December. He went through 14 innings during the previous season and picked up 11 wickets at an average of 34.18 and an economy rate of just over nine, with the best figures of 2/12 in an innings.

Watch: MI star Deepak Chahar attends the team India practice session at Lord’s

Chahar, thanks to his impressive IPL performance a few seasons ago, made it into the playing eleven of the Indian team. In 25 T20Is, the right-arm pacer picked up 31 wickets at an average of 24.09 and a strike rate of 17.4 with the best figures of 6/7. With the red ball, the 32-year-old earned 149 wickets in 89 FC innings at an average of 33.16, with the last fixture coming in November 2024 for Rajasthan against Uttarakhand.

Deepak Chahar it is… https://t.co/g7g12wXH0x pic.twitter.com/ukjFOk5B5u

— Sandipan Banerjee (@im_sandipan) July 9, 2025

A few seasons ago, many fans felt that Chahar could have been the best replacement for Bhuvneshwar Kumar due to his expertise in moving the new ball in both ways. He was present at Wimbledon with his wife and decided to turn up with the national side at the ground. And that’s when a video went viral.

India are expected to replace Prasidh Krishna with their premier pacer, Jasprit Bumrah. Kuldeep Yadav, who could come into the side due to the hot weather of London, may need to wait longer for his chance.  

Ahead of the Eliminator clash, which is slated to take place between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) on May 30, the MI camp dropped a huge bombshell on Deepak Chahar's availability. The update is not a positive one by any means, as Chahar seems to be nursing a hamstring injury, which he picked up on May 26 during MI's encounter with PBKS. While MI have not issued any official confirmation about his availability yet, recent reports have raised concerns about his fitness.

Chahar's injury concerns have sparked heightened rumors amongst the cricket fans, and in all likelihood, the pacer could be sidelined from the upcoming do-or-die clash for his side. Chahar was seen receiving treatment along the sidelines during MI's last league game clash against PBKS. Sadly, the 32-year-old hasn't fully recovered from the injury and continues to be under the close supervision of the MI medical staff.

With Corbin Bosch, Ryan Rickleton and Will Jacks already out of tournament to fulfill their national duties it will be very crucial for the five times IPL champions to stick to their core and back their strength. However, Chahar has had a mixed season so far. The star MI all rounder has taken 11 wickets in the 14 matches of IPL 2025, with an economy of 9.17 and best figures 2/12.

See also: PAK vs BAN 1st T20I Full Match Highlights

🚨UPDATE FROM MUMBAI INDIANS CAMP

🚨UPDATE FROM MUMBAI INDIANS CAMP

"Deepak Chahar might miss the eliminator game against GT due to injury". pic.twitter.com/KyNcmENuA2

— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) May 28, 2025

Deepak Chahar has long history of injury

Injuries are nothing new for the MI pacer. Previously, in the 2024 IPL season, Chahar sustained a similar type of hamstring injury during a match against Punjab Kings, forcing him to leave the field after delivering just two balls. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming expressed concern, stating that the initial assessment of the injury "wasn't great".

Chahar has a long history of picking up injuries, and if rumors are to be believed, his participation in the upcoming eliminator could be in massive jeopardy. So far, he has claimed 11 wickets in 14 matches for the Mumbai Indians up to this point in the season. Chahar's absence in the Eliminator clash can trigger concerns regarding the team’s playing XI combination, at a time when the five-time champions can't afford any slip-ups.

The 2025 IPL season has already delivered some unforgettable moments, but one clip featuring Deepak Chahar and MS Dhoni has particularly captured the internet’s attention. Known for their strong bond both on and off the field, the two shared a light-hearted reunion that fans are calling the "funniest moment of the season."

Before a Chennai Super Kings (CSK) match, Chahar, now playing for another franchise, crossed paths with his former captain, Dhoni. In the viral video, Chahar approached Dhoni with over-the-top excitement, arms wide open as if meeting an old friend. Dhoni, ever the cool-headed one, responded in his usual witty manner—pretending to run away before pulling Chahar into a playful hug. The heartwarming moment was quickly shared across social media platforms.

The video sparked a wave of reactions online, with memes flooding Twitter and Instagram. Fans jokingly suggested that Dhoni was “dodging responsibilities” or “avoiding emotional reunions,” while others pointed out how genuine their bond remains, even though they no longer play together. This isn’t the first time the duo’s chemistry has gone viral, with their banter during post-match interviews and training sessions also becoming fan favorites.

Watch here

Making merry with Namma Cherry! 💛✨#MIvCSK #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/Ooevfs9Img

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 19, 2025

Also read: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Jasprit Bumrah meets MS Dhoni ahead of MI vs CSK derby

CSK vs MI : Match Preview

After securing two consecutive victories, Mumbai Indians (MI) will be looking to complete a rare hat-trick when they face off against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025 Match 38 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, April 20. Known for their resilience, MI has a history of bouncing back after slow starts in the IPL, and this season is no different. After a shaky beginning, with just one win from their first five matches, Hardik Pandya’s team has found their rhythm, starting with a 12-run victory over Delhi Capitals and followed by a four-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Meanwhile, MS Dhoni’s CSK is desperate for more wins to stay in contention for a playoff spot, currently sitting at the bottom of the points table. The Wankhede crowd will be eager to see Dhoni in action once again, especially after he faced criticism for batting at number nine in a previous match. However, the Mumbai crowd, known for their admiration of Dhoni, will likely cheer for the CSK legend when he delivers his trademark big hits.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will face off against Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 16th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 . Both teams have had similar starts to the season, with one win and two losses each from their three matches so far. Mumbai Indians come into this game on a high, having defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by eight wickets in their last outing. In contrast, LSG will be aiming for a strong comeback after suffering a loss to Punjab Kings in their previous match.

Here, we are going through the Dream11 top captains and vice-captains for the LSG vs MI match. 

IPL 2025, Match 16: LSG vs MI Probable XIs

Lucknow Super Giants Predicted Playing XI: Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (Captain), Ayush Badoni, David Miller, Abdul Samad, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Akash Deep

Mumbai Indians Predicted Playing XI: Rohit Sharma/Vignesh Puthur (Impact Players), Ryan Rickelton, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Will Jacks/Bevon Jacobs, Hardik Pandya (Captain), Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Trent Boult, Ashwani Kumar

See Also: LSG VS MI: Match 16 Weather and Pitch Report – IPL 2025

IPL 2025, Match 16: LSG vs MI Dream11 Top Captains And Vice-captains

Top 3 Captain choices

Nicholas Pooran: There is no shock that Nicholas Pooran is leading the Orange Cap battle with 189 runs in three innings after scoring 75, 70, and 44 runs, respectively. His incredible six-hitting ability can destroy any bowling line-up.

Hardik Pandya: MI captain Hardik Pandya has to take important roles for his team. While the MI skipper is yet to perform strongly with the bat, he has taken three wickets in two matches. He can play strong finisher roles both as a batter and a bowler. 

Mitchell Marsh: Although Mitchell Marsh scored a golden duck in their last game against Punjab Kings, he previously scored 72 and 52 runs against Delhi Capitals and SunRisers Hyderabad, respectively. 

Top 3 Vice-captain choices

Shardul Thakur: Although Shardul Thakur went wicketless in their last game, he started well in the previous two matches by picking up a total of two and four wickets, including his best bowling figures in his IPL career (4/34).

Deepak Chahar: Indian pacer Deepak Chahar has a strong experience and started well in the IPL 2025 with four wickets in three matches, including three wickets in the powerplay. 

Trent Boult: Although New Zealand left-arm fast bowler Trent Boult is mostly silent in the early IPL 2025, he is improving well with every game. 

Mumbai Indians (MI)’  main players- Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Chahar, Tilak Varma, and Karn Sharma- today paid a spiritual visit at the sacred Ayodhya Ram Mandir to please divine forces before their important IPL 2025 match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Joined by their family members, the players took a break from their packed schedules to give prayers and display their devotion.

Follow for more: https://www.cricketwinner.com/

Spiritual visit ahead of a key game against LSG

The Mumbai Indians players visited the temple along with their partners, with players’ wives Devisha Shetty (Suryakumar Yadav) and Jaya Bhardwaj (Deepak Chahar) accompanying their husbands for the religious outing. The calm and tranquillity of Nepal’s most sacred temple created a special opportunity to ground and clear the mind for the major contest ahead.

Also read: IPL 2025 LSG vs MI : player battles to watch out

As the cricketer, Suryakumar Yadav subsequently posted an Instagram Story with a photo from the pilgrimage, writing, “Jai Shree Ram,” highlighting his dedication to God and enthusiasm for the experience of faith. 

Mumbai Indians' players Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Deepak Chahar, and Karn Sharma visited the Ayodhya Ram Mandir🛕 pic.twitter.com/6QO4vUvQFt

— Circle of Cricket (@circleofcricket) April 3, 2025

Attention Turns to the Heavyweight Battle with LSG

With the next match coming up against the Lucknow Super Giants on April 4 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, MI players will hope to find better fortunes. This visit to the sacred temple is seen as a way to bring positive energy and good luck before the crucial and challenging competition.

Also read: LSG VS MI : Match 16 Weather and Pitch Report – IPL 2025

Fans are hoping that this spiritual retreat will serve to lift up the squad’s morale and have them come in and deliver a heavy performance against LSG. With the IPL 2025 season starting to heat up, every match is becoming increasingly important, and MI will certainly be looking to build some momentum in their campaign.

Trent Boult Leads the Pack, Followed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Others

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen some incredible performances over the years, especially with bowlers making a mark in the very first over of the innings. Getting a wicket in the first over can set the tone for the entire match, and some bowlers have consistently made an impact right from the start. Here's a look at the top bowlers with the most wickets in the first over of the IPL.

Top Bowlers with Most Wickets in the First Over

• 30 Wickets – Trent Boult (96 matches)
• 27 Wickets – Bhuvneshwar Kumar (126 matches)
• 15 Wickets – Praveen Kumar (89 matches)
• 13 Wickets – Sandeep Sharma (78 matches)
• 13 Wickets – Deepak Chahar (77 matches)

🚨 Indian Premier League 2025, KKR vs MI 🚨

Most wickets in the first over in IPL

30 - Trent Boult (96 matches)
27 - Bhuvneshwar Kumar (126 matches)
15 - Praveen Kumar (89 matches)
13 - Sandeep Sharma (78 matches)
13 - Deepak Chahar (77 matches)#KKRvMI #KKRvsMI… pic.twitter.com/O7VYnjiZrj

— Sporcaster (@Sporcaster) March 31, 2025

Also read: IPL 2025 : Ashwani Kumar Marks IPL Debut with Key Wicket of Ajinkya Rahane

These bowlers have consistently delivered early breakthroughs for their teams, setting up the tone of the game right from the first over. Their ability to strike early has made them vital assets in the IPL, and their performances have often turned the tide in crucial moments

pic.twitter.com/iDEDgV6W3k BREAKING: MI FLIP THE SCRIPT AT WANKHEDE 🚨

Rohit Sharma benched. Hardik Pandya backed the bowlers. And MI have delivered BIG.

KKR were just 41-4 after Powerplay.

Deepak Chahar & Trent Boult — Both firing for the first time this season as MI picked 4…

— "Cricket ++" feat. Raj (@cricplusplus) March 31, 2025

IPL 2025 match 9 is between two heavyweight giants one who are 5-time title holders and another one the team who won their maiden trophy within their starting instalment. Mumbai is a grippy team with all their superstar players included and the other side Gujarat with a young team who are eager to run the show on their own. Both the teams are eager to win the game as they lost their first encounter. 
Mumbai captain Hardik Pandya will be back to the side after the completion of his one-match ban, Mumbai's last match was against their arch-rivals Csk where Mi got beaten up by 4 wickets. Same as the thing with Gujarat where they played their opening game against Punjab and lost against them while chasing it was an interesting encounter where GT lost the match by 11 runs margin only. So this match will be quite an exciting one in which to open its account in winning ways. Now it's time to see which players can perform well in this match. 

Read More: IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Titans Match 9
Top 3 Performers Who Can Outshine The Match
1 Sai Sudharshan
 The Gujarat Titans opener Sai Sudharshan is in great touch where he scored 74 runs against Punjab Kings where his team had to chase 243 runs. Sai played with an aggressive mindset which took on the chase for Gujarat Titans. He hit six sixes and  5 fours in his innings which shows the calibre of the player, he had a strike rate of 180 above which is really a good sign for Gujarat Titans. 
Sai Sudharshan has a good batting record against Mumbai where his runs speak for him for the most. His next challenge is against Mumbai Indians where he is expected to repeat the same performance. 
2  Deepak Chahar
  Deepak Chahar is an all-rounder who has been bought up by Mumbai Indians in a recent IPL auction for 9.25 crores. Earlier being part of Chennai Super Kings he provided a great performance for them it was unfortunate for Csk that they weren't able to bid for Chahar, though Mumbai picked him by their side and he has delivered them back by scoring valuable runs and taking important wickets during the chasing. 
So Fat Chahar has been impressive for Mumbai Indians and the team hopes he will deliver another big performance for them. 
3 Rohit Sharma
 Rohit Sharma has been the source of energy for Mumbai Indians and his iconic knocks have been vigilant to it. Reshaping the Mumbai team and making them a five-time champion side. Rohit has scored huge runs for them and recently he is been too high and low for the team. Recently Rohit Sharma won CT for India and has a huge stake for Mi, as he scored 75 runs in the final. 
It's depicted that Rohit may get back to his original touch as the tournament progresses for Mi.