IPL 2025: New Faces, Same Ambition - MI Drafts Bairstow & Co. for Playoff Push

Mumbai Indians (MI) have signed major moves before the decisive IPL 2025 playoff stage, confirming the additions of Jonny Bairstow, Richard Gleeson, and Charith Asalanka as replacement signings for Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch. The three exiting players will leave after MI's last league match to cater to national duties, leading the franchise to reinforce its pool of players for a probable playoff campaign.

 

Key Details of the Announcement

 

Jonny Bairstow (England) will replace Will Jacks. Bairstow, an experienced wicketkeeper-batsman with over 50 IPL appearances, joins MI at a price of ₹5.25 crore. He brings a proven track record, including two IPL centuries and a strike rate of 144.45, and is expected to bolster MI’s top order if they qualify for the knockouts.

 

Richard Gleeson (England) steps in for Ryan Rickelton. The 37-year-old pacer, who debuted in the IPL last season with Chennai Super Kings, was acquired at a reserve price of ₹1 crore. Gleeson adds depth to MI’s pace attack, particularly for the death overs.

 

Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka) takes the place of Corbin Bosch.

The Sri Lankan white-ball captain, who's joining at ₹75 lakh, is making his IPL debut and will add more batting and all-rounding depth to the middle order.

 

These tactical signings will become accessible only from the playoffs stage, subject to the Mumbai Indians booking a knockout spot. MI are fourth on the points table and have a virtual knockout tie against Delhi Capitals on Wednesday. Winning the match will confirm their playoff spot, and in case of a defeat, both teams would remain in the hunt till their last league fixtures.

 

Departures Due to National Duties

Impact and Outlook

MI’s management acted swiftly to ensure squad depth and experience for the business end of the tournament. Bairstow’s inclusion, in particular, is seen as a major boost given his IPL pedigree and recent form. Asalanka’s leadership and Gleeson’s pace could also prove crucial if MI advance in the playoffs.

 

The replacements reflect the franchise’s intent to remain competitive despite losing key overseas players at a critical juncture.

 

Sources: Times of India, Economic Times, Hindustan Times, Firstpost, ESPNcricinfo