IPL 2021: These players could be crucial for Rohit Sharma led Mumbai Indians

According to reports, Mumbai Indians (MI) made several releases ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction.

However, none of the releases really surprised the fans as they offloaded four overseas pacers, one all-rounder and two uncapped players. Moreover, the MI will have an opportunity to complete their squad at the IPL 2021 auction and during the trading window, which closes on February 11. It will once again open after the auction. In the upcoming trading window, the MI is reportedly to target Mayank Markande, Lockie Ferguson and Chris Woakes.

As of now, the MI have a pretty balanced side having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Quinton de Kock, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Kieron Pollard and Hardik Pandya. Still, few areas need attention, and the management will look to do that in the upcoming bidding process. These players can turn out to be crucial for the MI as they could provide the necessary support the team needs for the upcoming IPL. 

Meanwhile, earlier on Wednesday, January 20, MI announced the list of retained and released players. The Champions MI have retained the majority of its squad. However, the Nita Ambani-owned side has decided to part ways with Lasith Malinga, who is their trusted soldier since early seasons of the IPL and till now he has not played for any other franchise too. Moreover, the Lankan pacer is the highest wicket-taker in the IPL with 170 wickets from just 122 matches and was a part of Mumbai's 4 title wins.

Besides, Malinga, six other players released from the MI squad are Sherfane Rutherford, Mitch McClenaghan, James Pattinson, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Prince Balwant Rai, Digivijay Deshmukh.