MI Adds Temporary Replacements Amid IPL Schedule Shift

Mumbai Indians (MI) have signed Jonny Bairstow, Richard Gleeson, and Charith Asalanka as temporary replacements for Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch, who will depart for international duty ahead of the IPL 2025 Playoffs. This move follows a revised IPL schedule caused by a suspension due to India-Pakistan border tensions, which resulted in fixture overlaps with several international series. The IPL has permitted such temporary signings, but Bairstow, Gleeson, and Asalanka are ineligible for retention in the next season. These replacements will only join MI if the team qualifies for the Playoffs, with upcoming matches against Delhi Capitals (DC) and Punjab Kings critical for their chances. MI currently has 14 points from 12 matches and must outperform DC, who has 13 points, to secure qualification. The signings aim to strengthen MI's squad amidst a congested schedule and player absences.