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As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, Mumbai Indians (MI) are facing a dilemma. The franchise must make a tough decision as per latest reports: whether to retain Hardik Pandya as captain or risk losing players like Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah.

Recent reports suggest that internal tensions within the team have brought this issue to the forefront, with influential figures like Rohit Sharma and Sachin Tendulkar seemingly favoring Suryakumar Yadav for the captaincy role.

This decision could reshape the future of the team and has sparked intense debates among fans and experts alike.

What is the internal debate regarding Mumbai Indians' captaincy?

The heart of the dilemma lies in a growing rift within the MI camp. As revealed by Sushant Mehta on the talk show Sports Yaari, Rohit Sharma is not in favor of Hardik Pandya continuing as the team’s captain.

The dissatisfaction reportedly stems from the previous IPL season, where Pandya was given the role of MI captaincy over Rohit. Rohit, along with Sachin Tendulkar, has reportedly recommended, or even issued an ultimatum, that Pandya should step down as captain in favour of Suryakumar Yadav.

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This recommendation is not just a suggestion; it appears to be a serious point of contention. The tension has reportedly reached a level where Rohit and Tendulkar’s influence may lead to a decisive change in the leadership structure.

Reports suggest that keeping Hardik as captain will lead to a point where MI's top players like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah looking to leave the franchise.

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While Hardik Pandya is undoubtedly a valuable asset, the question is whether his retention is worth the potential sacrifice of other critical team members. The financial strain of retaining multiple high-profile players could force MI into making tough choices that could weaken the team’s overall strength.

The situation is further complicated by the events following the 2024 World Cup. Hardik Pandya had an outstanding performance in the tournament, which led many to believe that he should continue as MI’s captain.

Adding to the complexity, when the decision to appoint Suryakumar Yadav as India’s captain was delayed by a day, Pandya posted a picture showing his fitness. This was perhaps a reminder of his capability and readiness. This move was seen by some as an attempt to counter the growing narrative that Suryakumar should take over the captaincy.

Mumbai Indians are at a pivotal crossroads as they prepare for the IPL 2025 mega auction. It will be interesting to see how the team management acts out from here on.

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Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition.