Three players from the Mumbai Indians (MI) have stood out in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024, showcasing their exceptional form and setting the stage for a strong season ahead.
These players—Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Suryansh Shedge—have not only contributed significantly to their state teams but have also demonstrated their readiness to make an impact in the upcoming IPL.
Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav his an impressive run in T20 cricket during the SMAT 2024. Representing Mumbai, he scored a total of 132 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 132.00, with a top score of 70.
His ability to anchor innings while also accelerating when needed was evident, particularly in the final against Madhya Pradesh, where he contributed 48 runs off 35 balls.
Known for his innovative stroke play and versatility, Yadav’s performances have solidified his role as a key player for MI as they aim for their sixth IPL title.
Hardik Pandya
Mumbai Indians’ captain Hardik Pandya had a standout season in SMAT 2024 while playing for Baroda.
He accumulated 246 runs across seven matches with an impressive strike rate of 193.70. Pandya’s notable innings included an unbeaten 74 against Gujarat and 69 against Tamil Nadu, showcasing his explosive batting capabilities.
His performance against Tripura, where he scored 47 runs off just 23 balls, highlighted his ability to change games quickly. As MI prepares for IPL 2025, Pandya’s all-round skills will be crucial in leading the team both with bat and ball.
Suryansh Shedge
Suryansh Shedge emerged as one of the tournament’s most exciting young talents during SMAT 2024.
The 21-year-old played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s successful campaign, particularly in the final where he displayed remarkable composure under pressure.
Shedge scored 43 runs off 29 balls, helping Mumbai chase down a target of 174 runs to secure their second SMAT title.
With a staggering strike rate of 251.92 throughout the tournament, Shedge has established himself as a player to watch in IPL 2025. His ability to accelerate and finish games will add depth to MI’s batting lineup.
