Naman Dhir has credited the calming presence and guidance of Hardik Pandya and Kieron Pollard for helping him thrive in high-pressure situations during IPL 2025. The young Mumbai Indians batter, who has been primarily used in the lower middle order, has quietly impressed with his performances.
In six games so far, Naman has notched up 130 runs at an impressive average of 43.33 and a strike rate touching 186, showcasing his composure and power in crunch moments. His standout knock came against Lucknow Super Giants, where he stepped up at No. 3 in Rohit Sharma’s absence due to a knee injury and top-scored with 46.
Speaking ahead of MI’s clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede, the 25-year-old credited the mentorship of skipper Hardik and batting coach Pollard for keeping him grounded.
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“Right after the auction, MJ (Mahela Jayawardene) told me I’d be batting at 6 or 7, so I’ve been mentally preparing for that role ever since,” Naman shared. “When it comes to guys like Pollard and Hardik, they’re always in my ear, always guiding me. They’ve taught me how to stay calm under pressure and make the right decisions — what shots to play and when.”
“When it comes to guys like Pollard and Hardik, they’re always in my ear, constantly guiding me. The biggest thing they’ve helped me with is staying calm under pressure,” Naman Dhir said.#MIvsSRH #IPL2025 https://t.co/mCDaEqY0ep
— India Today Sports (@ITGDsports) April 17, 2025
He also highlighted the team’s supportive environment. “If I start fearing failure, it affects execution. The management has told me, ‘We’ve got your back — go out and express yourself.’ But at the same time, they’ve made it clear there’s a thin line between fearless and reckless. That’s the balance I’m learning to maintain.”
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Naman was also part of MI’s setup last season, where he scored 140 runs in seven outings, including a fine unbeaten 62. Now more mature and assured, he’s becoming a reliable presence for MI, who recently snapped their losing streak with a 12-run win over Delhi Capitals. With four points and a net run rate of +0.104, Mumbai sit seventh on the table and will look to build momentum as the tournament progresses.
