Mumbai Indians: One Year, One Chapter – Unpacking the IPL SeasonsEach chapter in Mumbai Indians’ journey over the years demonstrates not just their style of cricket but also the ethos and culture infused into this team. With an immense following both domestic and overseas, the Mumbai-based franchise holds a dear place in the hearts of millions.
- 2008 – Inception
- Captaincy Saga Begins…
- 2010 – Emergence of Pollard & First Final Appearance
- 2011- Prelude To Success
- 2012– Consistent But Not Quite There Yet..
- 2013– The Beginning Of An Era
- 2014 – A Year To Forget…
- 2015 – Second Title Win After Stumbling At Start
- The Arrival of Hardik Pandya…
- 2016 – Yet another disappointing year…
- 2017 –The Domination Begins…
- Addition of Jasprit Bumrah!
- 2018 – Calm Before The Storm
- 2019– Rise Of A New Dynasty
- 2020 – Riding High on Glory
2008 – Inception
The inaugural season for the squad was marred by several challenges that kept them from fully realizing their potential. Despite having game-changers such as Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya, inconsistencies led to early exit. However, this first year set the stage for future improvements.
Captaincy Saga Begins…
In 2009 Shaun Pollock took charge as captain hoping to change fortunes, however despite some notable performances, MI finished seventh out of eight teams. The elements were there, yet to coalesce into a winning formula.
2010 – Emergence of Pollard & First Final Appearance
Kieron Pollard emerged as their bright spot adding much needed firepower. His electric fielding and all-round skills provided a fresh thrust, guiding MI to its first-ever final appearance only to falter at last hurdle against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). A maiden finale though mirrored maturing of the ‘Men in Blue’.
2011- Prelude To Success
Somewhat dampened season compared to previous high still saw highlights including Harbhajan Singh’s ascent as captain due to injury-forced absence of Sachin Tendulkar.
2012– Consistent But Not Quite There Yet..
A consistent season filled with equal shares of highs and lows positioned MI comfortably in top four. This continued display of potential fueled speculation over when they would finally break the championship duck.
2013– The Beginning Of An Era
This season marked Mumbai’s first IPL win under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy. New signings like Glenn Maxwell, along with well-established names like Pollard and Malinga, combined their skills to lead MI to glory in an exciting finale against CSK.
2014 – A Year To Forget…
In contrast to the previous euphoria-filled year, 2014 proved a struggle as ‘Men in Blue’ fell short of making it to playoffs.
2015 – Second Title Win After Stumbling At Start
Mumbai Indians once again tasted ultimate victory in this season despite initial hiccups. Winning only one out of first six matches, Sharma-led team made a stunning turnaround winning seven consecutive games earning them second-place finish in league phase and ultimately the title in grand finals.
The Arrival of Hardik Pandya…
An all-rounder who changed the game dynamics for MI forever with swashbuckling batting & handy bowling spells was discovered during this season
2016 – Yet another disappointing year…
The defending champions could not carry forward momentum from last year’s triumph being ousted from tournament after failing to make ‘play-offs’ cut.
2017 –The Domination Begins…
Mumbai swept through league phase almost unscathed finishing at top which set up climactic final match against Rising Pune Supergiant. With finished nerves and steely resolve, MI clinched their third title demonstrating continued evolution as cricketing powerhouse..
Addition of Jasprit Bumrah!
This year also saw Bumrah establishing himself as go-to bowler under pressure situations with amazing death bowling skills.
2018 – Calm Before The Storm
A season that truly tested the mettle of Champions as they finished 5th and fell short making it to playoffs despite entertaining their fans with some scintillating cricket.
2019– Rise Of A New Dynasty
Mumbai came back stronger than ever, securing an unprecedented fourth title. Enhanced by the performances from Quinton de Kock and Jasprit Bumrah, Mumbai again proved themselves formidable during crunch situations in a nail-biting finish against CSK..
- The inclusion of disciplined yet explosive Suryakumar Yadav…
2020 – Riding High on Glory
The ‘Pandemic Edition’ held in UAE did not deter MI’s exceptional run who defeated Delhi Capitals hands-down to win record-fifth IPL Championship! Facing unique challenges because of COVID-19 pandemic, MI displayed integrity and fighting spirit showing why they are considered among best teams across all IPL seasons.
The journey of Mumbai Indians has been one filled with high drama, passion, intense rivalries and ultimately, success. This team embodies not just sporting prowess but also values such as perseverance and dedication. Their strength is rooted in unity – the belief that together, they can surmount any obstacle.
