mumbai: Mumbai Indians’ disappointing start to the ongoing Indian Premier League season has drawn scrutiny, with former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis suggesting that the team’s struggles may be linked to a dip in intensity following India’s recent T20 World Cup triumph.

Mumbai Indians currently sit at the bottom of the points table, managing just one win from five matches despite boasting a star-studded line-up.

Star players yet to deliver

The franchise features several key members of India’s World Cup-winning squad, including captain Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Jasprit Bumrah.

However, their performances so far have not matched expectations. Pandya has scored 81 runs in four innings, while Suryakumar and Tilak have managed 106 and 43 runs respectively. Bumrah, regarded as one of India’s premier bowlers, is yet to pick up a wicket after five outings.

These underwhelming numbers have contributed significantly to the team’s poor start this season.

Du Plessis on motivation and intensity

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, du Plessis highlighted a broader trend across the league, noting that several Indian players who were part of the T20 World Cup-winning squad have struggled to replicate their form in the IPL.

“You look right through the IPL and there are quite a lot of Indian players from the T20 World Cup who are not having amazing campaigns,” he said.

He suggested that sustaining the same level of hunger and intensity after achieving a major milestone like a World Cup victory can be challenging.

“When a team has done such great things and had such success, how do you make sure your desire and your hunger remain as strong? Because we’re not machines — we’re human beings,” he added.

Wider trend across franchises

Du Plessis emphasised that Mumbai Indians are not alone in facing this issue. According to him, several players across franchises who were part of the title-winning squad are yet to hit top form.

Interestingly, he noted that emerging and younger players have been making a bigger impact this season, often overshadowing established stars.

This shift has been evident in match-winning performances coming from less experienced players, while seasoned internationals continue to search for consistency.

Crucial clash ahead

Mumbai Indians will look to turn their fortunes around as they face Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The Titans, led by Shubman Gill, have been in strong form this season. Gill, who narrowly missed out on India’s World Cup squad, is currently among the leading run-scorers and is in contention for the Orange Cap.

The upcoming match presents a crucial opportunity for Mumbai Indians to regain momentum and climb up the standings.

Conclusion

While Mumbai Indians’ poor start has raised concerns, du Plessis’ remarks offer a perspective on the psychological challenges faced by players after major successes. As the tournament progresses, the team will need to rediscover its intensity and consistency to remain competitive in the IPL.