Mumbai Indians Secure New Players Ahead of Playoffs

In a strategic move, the Mumbai Indians have secured the services of Jonny Bairstow, Charith Asalanka, and Richard Gleeson as replacements for players leaving for international duties. With the IPL playoffs approaching, MI aims to bolster their squad ahead of crucial matches against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings. Bairstow, a key player in England's 2019 World Cup win, brings extensive experience, while Asalanka leads Sri Lanka in ODIs and T20Is. Gleeson, known for his skills in the death overs, adds depth to the bowling lineup. Discover more about these signings and MI's current standings in the league.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2025, 19:31 IST

Mumbai Indians Make Key Player Additions

The Mumbai Indians (MI) have announced the acquisition of England's wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow, Sri Lanka's captain Charith Asalanka, and English seamer Richard Gleeson as substitutes for Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch, and Ryan Rickelton, who are departing for international commitments, according to an IPL Media Advisory.

Jacks had returned to India in time for MI's last two group-stage matches but will not be available for the remainder of the season due to his national duties. England's ODI series against the West Indies is set to commence on May 29, which coincides with the rescheduled knockout rounds.

Rickelton and his fellow countryman Corbin Bosch will also miss the playoffs, as Cricket South Africa has requested that members of their World Test Championship final squad return home by May 27, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

New Additions to Join MI Soon

Jonny Bairstow played a crucial role in England's 2019 ODI World Cup victory. He has accumulated 287 caps for his country and has participated in 50 IPL matches over five seasons, previously representing Punjab Kings (2022 and 2024) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (2019-21).

With a total of 1589 runs in the IPL, Bairstow boasts an average of 34.54 and an impressive strike rate of 144.45. He has also scored two centuries in the league, including a record-setting chase against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens last year.

Charith Asalanka, currently leading Sri Lanka in both ODI and T20I formats, has played 134 international matches. In T20Is, he has scored 1247 runs in 58 games, averaging 24.45 with a strike rate of 128.55.

Richard Gleeson, aged 37, has made six T20I appearances for England and is recognized for his skills in the death overs. He debuted in the IPL last year, featuring in two matches for Chennai Super Kings.

As MI prepares for their final two group-stage encounters against Delhi Capitals on May 21 and Punjab Kings on May 26, they currently hold the fourth position in the points table with seven victories and five losses.