MI released a total of 13 players, including Pollard, as part of their retention process ahead of the IPL 2023 auction, which will be held in Kochi on December 23. The West Indian all-rounder will continue to be associated with the Mumbai-based franchise as a batting coach.
During a discussion on Star Sports, Moody was asked whether Pollard getting released was one of the big talking points. He responded:
The former Australian all-rounder highlighted that the veteran cricketer brought multiple facets of the game to the table. He explained:
Pollard scored 3412 runs at an impressive strike rate of 147.32 in the 189 IPL matches he played for the Mumbai Indians. He also snared 69 wickets at an acceptable economy rate of 8.79.
“They have got automatic replacements for his role” - Tom Moody on Mumbai Indians having the likes of Tim David
Moody reckons the MI management would have explained to Pollard the reasons behind the decision. He stated:
The former SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) head coach believes Tim David and Tristan Stubbs can perform the finisher’s role for the Mumbai Indians going forward. He elaborated:
David smashed 186 runs at an outstanding strike rate of 216.27 in the eight matches he played for the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2022. Although Stubbs could not deliver in the two games he played, he has shown his potential on the international stage for South Africa.
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