Trent Boult's Anticipated Return Boosts Mumbai Indians Ahead of IPL 2025 Playoffs

Mumbai Indians Await Trent Boult's Comeback

The Mumbai Indians are looking forward to Trent Boult's return as they gear up for the latter part of IPL 2025. Boult, who faced challenges in the early matches, has significantly contributed to the team's performance in the tournament. Currently, he holds the record for the most wickets in IPL history and has been part of five championship-winning teams. The remaining matches will take place at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium starting May 17.

In a bold move, the Mumbai Indians invested heavily in Boult for the 2024 IPL season, acquiring him for INR 12.5 crore. His impressive form has seen him claim 18 wickets across 12 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 8.49. Boult has excelled particularly during powerplay and death overs, with a standout performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad where he took 4 wickets for just 26 runs.

While there are no confirmed updates on his return, the Mumbai Indians' next match is scheduled for May 21, and it is anticipated that Boult will be back in action by then. The playoffs could present challenges for the team due to the revised IPL 2025 schedule, especially with key players potentially absent.

In related news, South Africa's cricket authorities have communicated with Cricket SA to allow Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch to participate only until May 25, following a directive regarding player availability for the IPL.

The ICC World Test Championship Final is set for June 11, where South Africa will face Australia. Consequently, the management has requested rest for all players involved in that match, meaning Bosch and Rickelton will join the South African WTC squad. Meanwhile, Will Jacks has received a call-up for England's ODI series against the West Indies starting May 29.

As the tournament progresses, the Mumbai Indians are projected to finish fourth on the points table. Their last two matches are against teams currently in the top four, both of which are formidable opponents. If Mumbai wins both games, they will secure a spot in the playoffs. After a rocky start, the team has turned things around with seven consecutive victories.

Under Hardik Pandya's leadership, the team has showcased a strong playing style. However, the absence of key overseas players during the playoffs could hinder their chances of reaching the IPL 2025 final. The Mumbai Indians are set to face Delhi Capitals on May 21 and Punjab Kings on May 26 in their concluding league matches.