MI’s puzzling benching of Karn Sharma draws criticism ahead of clash vs PBKS

Mumbai Indians are one win away from the IPL 2025 final. They face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2 on Sunday. MI qualified after beating Gujarat Titans by 20 runs in the Eliminator. It was a high-scoring clash. MI scored 228/5 while batting first. GT responded strongly. Sai Sudharsan scored 80. Washington Sundar added 48. But Jasprit Bumrah broke the partnership. He dismissed Sundar at a crucial time. That shifted the momentum back to MI.

Murali Kartik questions Karn Sharma’s absence

Former India spinner Murali Kartik has raised concerns about MI’s team choices. His main concern is the omission of Karn Sharma. The leg-spinner played six games this season. He took seven wickets. One of his best spells came against Delhi Capitals. In that match, he picked 3/36. MI won that game. That win helped revive their campaign.

Kartik was surprised by Karn’s sudden exclusion. He said on Cricbuzz,

“He was playing good. Suddenly, you completely ignored him. I don’t understand why.”
He also added,

“These are the things which you feel as an outsider, because you are watching the games, you are watching the progress.”

MI replaced Karn with Mitchell Santner in recent games. Kartik found that puzzling. He suggested that the team might have overthought their bowling balance.

Concern over Richard Gleeson’s injury

Kartik also discussed MI’s pace options. English bowler Richard Gleeson injured his hamstring during the Eliminator. It happened in the last over. His availability for Qualifier 2 is uncertain. Kartik said MI may need to bring someone else in.
“If Gleeson is unfit, they might have to look elsewhere. Karn Sharma could be back,” he suggested.

Punjab Kings’ boost if Chahar returns

Kartik also talked about PBKS. He said if Deepak Chahar is fit, it will boost their chances. Ryan Rickelton and Will Jacks are unavailable. But Jonny Bairstow has filled in well. A fit Chahar brings balance to the XI.

The winner of this clash meets RCB in the final. RCB beat PBKS in Qualifier 1 to book their spot. The IPL 2025 final is scheduled for Tuesday night.

Mumbai are in form. But their team choices, especially in the bowling unit, remain under question.

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