The Mindset of Champions: Lessons from the Mumbai Indians

What happens when some of the world’s top cricketers talk about leadership, mindset, communications, and teamwork? At a recent Udemy event, Bharat Bansal sat down with Mumbai Indians stars Mitchell Santner, Trent Boult, and Naman Dhir for an inspiring chat about what it takes to perform at the highest level on a team.

From personal stories to practical advice, their insights went far beyond cricket – offering real takeaways for anyone focused on building a strong team or a thriving workplace culture. Here’s a look at the top moments from the discussion.

Handling Feedback On & Off The Field

Q: In high-stakes environments, feedback can come fast and from everywhere. How do you manage it?

Trent Boult:
“I’ve learned to filter feedback. When you play for different teams, everyone has an opinion, but at the end of the day, it’s your game. Take what serves you and leave the rest.”

Naman Dhir:
“I like being my own coach. I do talk to Polly (Kieron Pollard) and others, but I take what works for me and drop the rest.”

Mitchell Santner:
“In franchise cricket, communication is key—you’ve got to figure out your own game quickly. Back in the New Zealand setup, we value those sit-downs with coaches. Even a small chat helps.”

What about giving feedback to others, especially as a senior player?

Trent Boult:
“It all starts with relationships. When people know you care, they’re more open to hearing the tough stuff. Whether they’re playing or not, help them see the bigger picture and their role in the journey.”

Handling Failure & Setbacks

Q: Whether it’s a bad over or a missed opportunity, how do you bounce back?

Boult:
“Perspective is everything. Cricket started as a backyard game with my brothers. I try to keep that joy alive—even on the tough days.”

Santner:
“You can bowl well and still get hit. Bat well and get caught. That’s the game. The key is to not get too high or too low.”

Dhir:
“I reflect, but don’t dwell. I focus quickly on the next challenge.”

Q: What advice would you give students or professionals facing failure?

Santner:
“Learn from it. Stay level-headed. Don’t let a bad day define you—reflect, reset, and get back in the game.”

The Role of Downtime and Recharging

Q: How do you unwind and stay fresh between matches?

Boult:
“Family keeps me grounded. In India, the routine’s different, but that helps. Switching off mentally before switching back on—that’s key.”

Santner:

“I play golf. It’s a great way to switch off, breathe some fresh air, and reset.”

Q: Stuck on a team bus with one music playlist—what are you playing to help you unwind?

Dhir:
“Punjabi bangers—no contest!”

Boult:
“Country music. Chris Stapleton for sure.”

Santner:
“Post Malone. Something chill, definitely.”

Inside the Mumbai Indians Culture: Leadership & Camaraderie

Q: What does great leadership look like in cricket?

Boult:
“The best captains build belief. Brendon McCullum, Kane Williamson—they back you, they’re calm, they inspire confidence.”

Santner:
“At MI, leadership isn’t hierarchical. Everyone’s encouraged to contribute. You’ll see players bouncing ideas off each other in the middle of games—it’s a team-first culture.”Dhir:
“Absolutely. During a match against LSG, I was batting with SKY and he kept telling me to back my shots. That confidence he gave me made all the difference.”

Rapid-Fire: Getting to Know the MI Players

Funniest MI Teammate?
Dhir: “Jasprit Bumrah—genuinely hilarious.”
Santner: “People also just laugh at Trent. Not sure if it’s with him.”

Most Serious MI Teammate?
Dhir: “Mahela and Robin Minz. Always locked in.”

Pre-Match Ritual?
Boult: “Hair gel. Pep talk in the mirror—even if it’s for a shoot.”
Santner: “Music and stretching—keeps the nerves in check.”

One Skill You Admire in a Teammate?
Dhir: “SKY’s calm, and Hardik’s intensity—always gives 200%.”
Santner: “Rohit’s composure—he rarely gets rattled.”

If Not a Cricketer…?
Boult: “Actor. Or chef—love aloo gobi!”
Santner: “Maybe finance? Can’t imagine anything else.”

One Word Cricket Taught You About Life?
Santner: “Patience”
Dhir: “Hard work”
Boult: “Perseverance”

Take a page from Mumbai Indians’ playbook and bring these ideas into your own workplace. Whether you’re leading the charge or supporting the team, you have the power to shape a workplace culture that’s not just successful, but genuinely enjoyable. When everyone leans into these leadership principles, great things happen — stronger teams, bigger wins, and a workplace you can truly take pride in.