Mumbai Indians are in need of a major strategic rethink following their third consecutive defeat in the Indian Premier League. Captain Hardik Pandya acknowledged the team's struggles after a 18-run loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Wankhede Stadium.
The five-time champions now sit eighth in the 10-team standings with only two points from four matches. Despite having several Twenty20 World Cup-winning players, Mumbai has failed to build momentum.
"A lot of things need a rethink. But we have to see other options we can have, with the bat and the ball," Pandya stated at the post-match presentation. He emphasized the need for improved performance in both batting and bowling.
Concerns are particularly high regarding the team's powerplay performance. The bowling attack has struggled to take early wickets, and opponents have managed to neutralize star bowler Jasprit Bumrah before targeting other bowlers.
"Last couple of games, as a bowling and batting unit, we have been catching up. Really need to reflect on what best we can do ... and how to get some momentum in the powerplay," Pandya added. Batting inconsistencies from key players like Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma are also increasing pressure on the batting unit.
Potential adjustments could include moving Naman Dhir up the batting order or considering England all-rounder Will Jacks for better team balance.