IPL 2025: “Talking to Polly and Hardik bhai helped me” - Naman Dhir on playing the finisher’s role for MI

Naman Dhir’s blitz of 24* in 8 balls with 2 fours and 2 sixes caught the attention of MI fans, despite Suryakumar Yadav walking away with accolades for his 73* that took MI to 180/5 against Delhi Capitals (DC) in their recent IPL 2025 match.

Thanks to their contributions, MI posted a respectable total on the board and then bowled out DC for 121 runs, registering a 59-run win. MI also qualified for the IPL 2025 playoffs, joining Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings.

“I talk to Polly every day”—Naman Dhir on perfecting his role as a finisher for MI

Naman Dhir paid gratitude to MI legend and batting coach Kieron Pollard for his transformation into a finisher. He also credited MI captain Hardik Pandya for his inputs, as in his first full IPL season, Dhir has 186 runs in 13 matches at an explosive strike rate of 182.35.

"We were trying to keep things simple. We were trying to time the ball rather than muscle it. That's what we practice in the nets every day. I talk to Polly every day about this. That helped me a lot. Talking to Polly and Hardik bhai helped me a lot. Surya and Tilak's partnership was very critical. The ball was turning a bit. The wicket was slow. They gave a foundation that helped us express ourselves. I don't think they struggled. They wanted to preserve wickets for the end overs," Naman Dhir told reporters after the win over Delhi Capitals.

The top players in the MI camp have also taught Dhir the game, and he attributes their influence to his growth.

"Polly has a lot of experience. He has played close to 700 games. He educates me about the strengths and weaknesses of bowlers. We also watch videos of bowlers a lot. Accordingly, I plan. Sometimes, I am able to execute it; sometimes not. Today, it was my day. The team is very happy,” he stated.

After missing the playoffs the previous season, the Mumbai Indians made a comeback. More importantly, Dhir seems to be the team's long-term finisher, guided by a man who understands the position better than most.

"If MI is playing, you should expect us to qualify for the playoffs. Now we're focused on the next four games—to win and win the tournament,” Dhir signed off.

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