The Mumbai Indians have bolstered their squad with high-profile replacements ahead of the IPL 2025 Playoffs. On Tuesday, the franchise confirmed the signings of Jonny Bairstow, Richard Gleeson, and Charith Asalanka to replace Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch, all of whom are set to leave for national duties after MI's final league-stage match.
England wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow has been signed as a replacement for Will Jacks for a sum of INR 5.25 crore. Bairstow enters the IPL with good recent form, having scored 89 and 77 in the ongoing County Championship against Surrey. His vast experience and ability to deliver under pressure could make him a game-changer for MI in the knockout stages.
Joining him is English pacer Richard Gleeson, who replaces Ryan Rickelton at a reserve price of INR 1 crore. Gleeson last featured in the SA20 league, where he picked up 14 wickets in 13 matches for Sunrisers Eastern Cape. Known for his sharp pace and control, he brings depth to MI’s fast-bowling resources.
Sri Lankan middle-order batter Charith Asalanka, who comes in for Corbin Bosch at a reserve price of INR 75 lakhs, also enters with solid domestic form. In his last outing in the National Super League 4-day tournament, Asalanka struck a brilliant 151. His inclusion adds left-handed stability to the middle order and provides an option against spin-heavy oppositions.
“Mumbai Indians (MI) have picked Jonny Bairstow, Richard Gleeson and Charith Asalanka as replacements for Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch, who are all set to leave for national duties after MI's last league game,” the IPL
Bairstow headlines the reinforcements as MI eye playoffs qualification
While the new recruits will only be available from the Playoffs stage, their arrival signals MI’s intent to go deep into the tournament. The team remains in contention for a playoff berth, and the outcome of their final two league matches will determine their fate.
Bairstow is expected to be a like-for-like replacement for Jacks in terms of top-order aggression. Gleeson strengthens the bowling unit with his recent form in franchise cricket, and Asalanka brings composure and variety to the middle order, especially useful if MI encounters turning tracks in the knockout stages.
MI, who are currently in the fourth place with seven wins from twelve appearances, must win at least one of the next two matches to qualify for the playoffs directly. They face the Delhi Capitals next. A win against DC will take them to yet another playoff.
Should MI secure qualification, the availability of these in-form reinforcements could play a key role in their push for a record-extending sixth IPL title.
