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As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, franchise teams are closely examining their rosters and scouting potential recruits to strengthen their lineups. Indian fast bowler Mukesh Kumar has emerged as a promising candidate, given his recent performances and pace abilities. Currently representing India A against Australia A in an unofficial Test series, Mukesh was the leading wicket-taker for Delhi Capitals (DC) in the 2024 IPL season, demonstrating consistent pace and skill.
Franchises likely to pursue Mukesh Kumar’s skillful bowling
Several franchises that struggled with their bowling depth in the 2024 IPL season may look to target Mukesh in the upcoming auction. Teams who faced challenges in finding a reliable Indian pacer to complement their international bowlers could see Mukesh as a game-changer. Mukesh is the kind of bowler who can add consistency and firepower to their attack. The teams, each with unique needs in their bowling departments, might see Mukesh as a key addition to boost their lineups for a strong showing in the 2025 season.
3 franchises who can go after Mukesh in IPL 2025 auction
1. Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals have a special interest in Mukesh, who began his IPL career with them in 2023 and delivered a standout performance in the 2024 season, taking 17 wickets in 10 matches. He became a crucial part of their bowling lineup, especially with his ability to generate pace and trouble batters in the powerplay and death overs.
Ahead of the 2025 auction, DC has already retained four core players: Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs and Abishek Porel. With two Right-to-Match (RTM) cards still available, Delhi could use one to secure Mukesh’s services again, capitalizing on his chemistry with the team and his familiarity with DC’s strategies. His experience with the franchise and impressive 2024 season make him an attractive candidate for DC’s bowling unit in the next edition.
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2. Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians, the five-time IPL champions, are eager to make a strong comeback after a disappointing 2024 season that saw them finish at the bottom of the points table. Despite the efforts of star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed 20 wickets, Mumbai’s bowling lineup fell short, lacking the depth and consistency needed to compete effectively. Mumbai’s management is aware of the need to reinforce their pace attack to support Bumrah, who was left carrying much of the burden in 2024.
Mukesh could be a valuable addition to Mumbai’s squad, bringing his pace and wicket-taking abilities to partner with Bumrah. His skillset aligns with Mumbai’s need for a capable fast bowler who can handle the pressure in high-stakes matches and take crucial wickets in key moments. A duo of Bumrah and Mukesh would offer Mumbai a balanced pace attack, allowing them to regain competitive form in the 2025 season.
After a spectacular IPL season in 2022 and 2023, Gujarat Titans (GT) struggled in 2024, finishing in a disappointing 8th place. The team’s bowling lineup, which had previously been their strength, underperformed, with Mohit Sharma leading the wicket tally for GT with only 13 wickets in 12 matches. Notably, GT’s retained list for 2025 includes Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan, but lacks a specialist fast bowler.
Given their bowling woes in the previous season, Gujarat could look to Mukesh as a reliable pace option to bolster their attack. His recent form and capacity to adapt to various game situations make him a potential asset for GT, especially considering their need for a skilled fast bowler. Adding Mukesh would bring diversity to their bowling lineup and provide depth, particularly during powerplay overs where GT struggled in 2024.
