Mumbai Indians have an enviable talent pool heading into the IPL 2026 retention deadline. Led by Hardik Pandya, the five time champions finished 3rd last season and will look to add more silverware to their trophy cabinet. While MI boast superstar names in Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav, the franchise also houses some of the finest young talents in Indian cricket.
Here, at Insidesport.IN, we look at 5 young players that Mumbai Indians should retain ahead of IPL 2026 Auction.
Raj Angad Bawa
One of the stars of India’s U19 World Cup win in 2022, Raj Bawa hasn’t had quite the trajectory one would have expected. However, Bawa remains a rare commodity in India – a fast bowling all rounder. While game time will be hard to come by, shadowing Hardik Pandya will be a huge learning experience for the Chandigarh star. MI are committed to churning out talents and Bawa remains one they are yet to fully utilise.
Naman Dhir
Naman Dhir has seen his stocks rise since bursting onto the scene with Mumbai. A clasical batsman who clears the ropes with ease, MI paid a whopping 5.25 crore from their shoestring budget to buy him last year. He took the finisher role well, while also dovetails as a floater up the order. Part time spin is an added advantage. He is Punjab’s Ranji captain and it is a no brainer for MI to hold onto him.
Ashwani Kumar
Ashwani Kumar was used sparingly but he used those chances to good effect. Kumar ended with 11 wickets in 7 matches, often bowling in the death. His 4/24 vs KKR showcased his potential and the left arm pacer will be one to watch out for.
Vignesh Puthur
Injury halted what was turning out to be a promising start to an IPL career. A little known mystery spinner from Kerala, Puthur impressed on his debut in Chepauk against CSK. With MI light on spin stocks, Puthur could well be their long term bet on solving a squad hole.
AM Ghazanfar
AM Ghazanfar has not played a game for Mumbai Indians or in the IPL. Why should they retain him? The 18-year-old has already played in all formats for Afghanistan and MI paid 4.8 crore for his services. Whether MI take the punt to retain him remains to be seen, but Afghan spinners have ruled the roost in IPL in recent years. Would be great to have one for themselves.
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