Mujeeb Ur Rahman Replaces AM Ghazanfar in Mumbai Indians Squad

Mujeeb Ur Rahman Joins Mumbai Indians as Replacement for AM Ghazanfar

Afghan Spinner Steps in After Ghazanfar's Injury Blow

Mumbai Indians (MI) have roped in Mujeeb Ur Rahman as a replacement for young Afghanistan spinner AM Ghazanfar, who has been ruled out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to a spinal injury. The franchise confirmed the signing of the experienced T20 specialist, adding a much-needed spin option to their squad.

Ghazanfar’s Injury and Recovery Timeline

The 18-year-old Ghazanfar, who was set to make his IPL debut with MI, suffered a fracture in the L4 vertebra during Afghanistan’s Zimbabwe tour. The injury has now sidelined him from both the IPL 2025 and the Champions Trophy 2025, with doctors advising at least four months of recovery.

According to the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), Ghazanfar’s condition requires intensive medical attention, and he will undergo treatment before making a return to competitive cricket. The young spinner, known for his potential, will now shift his focus to rehabilitation and long-term fitness.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman: A Proven T20 Match-Winner

Mujeeb, 23, brings a wealth of T20 experience to Mumbai Indians. He recently played a crucial role in the SA20 2025, where he was the top wicket-taker for the Royals, picking up 14 wickets in 12 matches.

With over 256 T20 matches under his belt, Mujeeb has claimed 275 wickets at an average of 23.67 and an economy rate of 6.75. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and middle overs, coupled with his deceptive variations, makes him a valuable asset in MI’s spin department.

Why MI Signed Mujeeb?

MI's decision to bring in Mujeeb stems from his proven track record in T20 leagues around the world. Despite not being part of Afghanistan’s Champions Trophy squad, he has continued to perform in franchise cricket.

• T20 Specialist – His skill set is ideal for shorter formats, making him a perfect fit for the IPL.
•  Recent Form – He impressed in SA20 2025, emerging as one of the most consistent spinners.
•  Experience in Pressure Situations – Having played in high-intensity leagues like the Big Bash League (BBL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and The Hundred, he knows how to handle pressure.
•  Mystery Spin Factor – MI benefits from his unorthodox variations, which can be tricky for batters in IPL 2025 conditions.

Mujeeb’s Road to IPL 2025

Mujeeb was initially not considered for Afghanistan’s ODI and Test squads, as he was advised to focus solely on T20s to recover from a right phalanx sprain. This decision allowed him to maintain peak fitness and continue playing franchise cricket, ensuring he remains one of the top spinners in the T20 circuit.

With MI adding him to their ranks, he now gets another big opportunity to shine on the IPL stage, where he previously played for Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). His past experience in the league will prove crucial as he joins a squad filled with big names like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Hardik Pandya.

What This Means for MI in IPL 2025

MI has always relied on quality spin options in their championship-winning seasons. With Mujeeb in the squad, they get:

A reliable powerplay bowler who can control the flow of runs early in the innings.
A wicket-taking threat in middle overs, crucial for breaking partnerships.
A mystery spinner who can trouble big hitters on slower pitches.

With Piyush Chawla and Kumar Kartikeya already in the squad, MI now has a strong spin attack that offers variety and control.

Final Thoughts: Can Mujeeb Make an Impact?

Mujeeb’s arrival in MI presents a huge opportunity for both player and franchise. If he can replicate his SA20 success, he will undoubtedly become a key part of MI’s IPL 2025 campaign.

As MI gears up for another title run, all eyes will be on Mujeeb to see if he can seize his chance and make a mark in the world’s biggest T20 league.