Mumbai Indians Sign Bairstow, Gleeson, Asalanka | IPL 2025

Mumbai Indians Rope in Bairstow, Gleeson & Asalanka for IPL 2025 Playoffs Push

Mumbai Indians Strengthen Squad for Playoffs with Bairstow, Gleeson & Asalanka Signings

Mumbai, May 20, 2025 – In a decisive move ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs, Mumbai Indians (MI) have officially signed Jonny Bairstow, Richard Gleeson, and Charith Asalanka as replacements for Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch. The trio will be available for selection starting from the IPL playoffs stage, should MI qualify, offering depth and experience across batting and bowling departments.

The need for reinforcements arose with Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch being called up for international duties post-MI’s final league fixture. With the playoffs looming, Mumbai's management wasted no time in securing three internationally seasoned players, ensuring that the team remains well-equipped to chase another IPL title.

Jonny Bairstow Returns to IPL Fold

One of the most notable additions is Jonny Bairstow, the dynamic England wicketkeeper-batter, who returns to the IPL after a gap season. Bairstow has previously featured for franchises like Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings, with over 1300 IPL runs under his belt at a strike rate of over 140. Known for his aggressive approach at the top of the order and his ability to anchor innings under pressure, Bairstow joins Mumbai Indians at a price of INR 5.25 crore.

His inclusion is seen as a direct response to the absence of Will Jacks, whose explosive middle-order performances had been vital for MI this season. Bairstow not only brings world-class experience but also wicketkeeping flexibility, which could allow MI to shuffle their combinations as needed in the high-stakes playoff matches.

Richard Gleeson Adds Firepower to Pace Attack

Joining Bairstow is fellow Englishman Richard Gleeson, a late bloomer in international cricket but a proven performer in franchise T20 leagues and The Hundred. At INR 1 crore, Gleeson is expected to bolster the bowling reserves, replacing Ryan Rickelton, who served as a reserve wicketkeeper-batter in the squad.

Gleeson is known for his deceptive pace and sharp back-of-length deliveries that trouble batters, particularly in the middle overs and death. His addition provides MI another dimension in pace, especially in matches where overseas fast bowlers are preferred based on pitch conditions. He could also offer valuable support to Jasprit Bumrah and Gerald Coetzee, forming a lethal trio if deployed tactically.

Charith Asalanka: A Spin-Savvy Middle Order Reinforcement

The third inclusion, Charith Asalanka of Sri Lanka, has been signed at a reserve price of INR 75 lakhs. A stylish left-hander with composure and flair, Asalanka steps in for Corbin Bosch, who played a utility role for MI. Asalanka’s ability to tackle spin makes him a handy middle-order option, especially in venues like Chennai or Ahmedabad where spin plays a bigger role.

Asalanka, who was Sri Lanka’s vice-captain during the 2023 World Cup and has established himself as a finisher in T20Is, could slot in seamlessly into MI’s batting lineup should they need a dependable left-hander to anchor or accelerate.

Strategic Signings Reflect MI’s Long-Term Vision

The Mumbai Indians franchise has always maintained a reputation for proactive planning and depth-building, and these IPL 2025 playoff signings are a testament to that ethos. While the team has had a mixed season, they remain in the hunt for qualification, and these strategic additions significantly enhance their chances of competing for the title if they reach the final four.

By bringing in a mix of power (Bairstow), pace (Gleeson), and finesse (Asalanka), MI have addressed key roles that could otherwise be impacted by the international departures. These players are not only replacements but also potential game-changers in knockout scenarios.

All three replacements are expected to join the MI squad shortly after their commitments wrap up, ensuring they’re match-fit and mentally geared for high-pressure action.

Mumbai Indians’ Current Scenario in IPL 2025

As of May 20, 2025, Mumbai Indians remain in contention for the playoffs but face stiff competition from several mid-table teams. The outcome of their last league match will determine their qualification prospects. If they advance, these replacements will be critical assets in MI’s playoff campaign.

With key performances from captain Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and rising talents like Tilak Varma and Nehal Wadhera already shaping the team’s identity this season, the integration of Bairstow, Gleeson, and Asalanka promises to add muscle to an already promising setup.