Mahela Jayawardene had employed Hardik Pandya and Kieron Pollard as the best finishing duo in the IPL. With Tim David, the success was not there. However, now, Mahela will look to find a similar partner for Hardik Pandya. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of three foreigners MI can target as Hardik Pandya’s partner in the finishing department.
1) Glenn Phillips
The Kiwi will be an underrated option in this regard. He is clearly capable of clearing long boundaries and he can also score big knocks.
Importantly, he is an all-rounder and offers good off-spin value. If MI does not find a keeper, as well, the Phillips can step in behind the stumps.
2) Shimron Hetmyer
Shimron Hetmyer is one of the foreigners MI can target as Hardik Pandya’s partner in the finishing department. If Mumbai is looking for a replacement who can be present in the future, Hetmyer will be ideal for the team.
He is fairly young and on his day, he can be destructive. He is a left-hander and there is variety here. At Wankhede, he can easily clear the boundaries. If Mumbai Indians can somehow get him, it would be a massive statement of intent.
3) Marcus Stoinis
If the young options are not available, Mumbai Indians can adopt the strategy of a veteran who can be there for the next two seasons while some youngsters come through. Stoinis can be that option.
He had a brilliant IPL 2024 and with LSG unlikely to retain him, he will be back in the auctions. Apart from his finishing skills, he also gives a few overs with the ball, just like Pollard. If MI loses some quick wickets, having played as an opener, Stoinis can be sent up, as well. Hence, he is on this list.
