Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene believes that a proven “winning mentality” combined with seasoned campaigners like Rohit Sharma can drive the five-time champions toward further Indian Premier League (IPL) success.
Led by Hardik Pandya, Mumbai are just two wins away from securing another IPL title after a convincing 20-run victory over Gujarat Titans in Friday’s eliminator.
The team now faces Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad on Sunday, with the winner advancing to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final on June 3.
Mumbai endured a challenging start to the season, losing four of their first five matches. However, they bounced back strongly by winning seven of their next eight games to clinch a playoff spot.
Finishing fourth in the league standings, Mumbai faced Gujarat in a high-stakes knockout match. Despite losing to Gujarat twice during the league stage, Mumbai rose to the occasion when it mattered most.
“When you have a winning culture, it’s easier to maintain that mindset throughout the team,” Jayawardene said. “Even with new players coming in, we have a very experienced core group within our ranks.”
The former Sri Lanka captain added, “That winning mentality comes from senior players who have previously won trophies, and their experience is invaluable.”
Rohit Sharma led Mumbai’s batting charge with a commanding 81 runs, putting on a blazing opening partnership with Jonny Bairstow, who scored 47, helping Mumbai post a total of 228-5.
In conditions made difficult for bowlers by dew at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, Mumbai’s senior players, including Jasprit Bumrah, restricted Gujarat to 208-6.
Owned by Nita Ambani, wife of India’s richest man Mukesh Ambani, Mumbai Indians are tied with Chennai Super Kings as the most successful franchise in IPL history since the tournament began in 2008.
Experience and Reputation
Bumrah was crucial in the bowling attack, taking the key wicket of Washington Sundar with a yorker and finishing with figures of 1-27 in his four overs, effectively choking Gujarat’s chase.
Bumrah made a late return this season after recovering from a serious back injury, and Jayawardene highlighted the importance of his presence and experience.
“There are no concerns when he returns because his reputation precedes him. He was confident and bowled well in his sessions, nailing those yorkers,” Jayawardene said. “He’s a massive asset to the team and brings invaluable experience to pressure situations. It’s great to have him back.”
Rohit Sharma, who recently retired from Test cricket alongside Virat Kohli, scored his fourth half-century of the season, accumulating 410 runs in 14 innings despite a somewhat inconsistent campaign.
Having led Mumbai to all five of their IPL titles, Rohit remains a key figure.
“In big games, he shifts into a different gear — that’s what experience brings, and it’s irreplaceable,” Jayawardene said.
Mumbai’s next challenge comes against Punjab Kings, who finished top of the table but were convincingly beaten by Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the first qualifier.
Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer said, “We lost the battle but not the war,” after being bowled out for 101 in their defeat.
The Kings are still chasing their first-ever IPL title.
