When Navdeep Saini's name came up in the auction, it was expected that some team would bet on him to capitalize on his speed and experience. But when no franchise bid for him despite the base price of Rs 75 lakh, this fast bowler remained unsold.

However, there is no way to tell when luck can change in the world of cricket! Now suddenly his luck has shone, as the famous IPL franchise has decided to include Saini in its squad.

Navdeep Saini got a big chance

Actually, five-time champion Mumbai Indians has always been known to trust fast bowlers. This time he has created a new option by including Navdeep Saini in his attack. Saini's experience and speed can be very important for the team with deadly fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Gerald Coetzee.

Saini's IPL journey has been full of ups and downs so far. When he made his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2019, his performance was quite impressive. He took 11 wickets in 13 matches in his very first season and troubled the batsmen with his speed. However, his performance was a bit dull in 2020 and could take only 6 wickets in 13 matches.

RCB did not give a chance to shine

Difficulties increased further for Saini in IPL 2021. He did not get many chances in RCB's playing XI, and he could play only 2 matches. After this, Rajasthan Royals bought him in the 2022 mega auction, but here too he could not make a special impact by taking 3 wickets in just 2 matches. He did not get much opportunities in the IPL in 2023 and 2024 as well, due to which his career seemed to be moving towards stagnation.

Mumbai will trust Navdeep Saini for these 5 reasons

Mumbai Indians have created a fast bowler backup by including Navdeep Saini in their squad, who can prove useful for the team in many ways:

1. 145+ kmph speed - Saini's biggest strength is his fast speed. He can consistently bowl at a speed of more than 145 kmph, which can make Mumbai Indians' fast attack more lethal.

2. Effective in powerplay and middle overs - Saini has bowled effectively in the powerplay as well as the middle overs in his career.

3. Bumrah's backup - Jasprit Bumrah is the key bowler of Mumbai Indians, but if he is rested in a match or in case of injury, Saini can give the team the option of speed and experience.

4. International experience – Saini has also played international cricket for India, giving him experience of big matches. This experience can help him perform better in pressure situations.

5. Wicket-taking ability – Although Saini's IPL journey has been inconsistent, on his day he can trouble any batsman. His hit-the-deck bowling style and ability to bowl bouncers can add a new dimension to Mumbai's fast bowling combination.