Mumbai, India – May 20, 2025 – The five-time IPL champions, Mumbai Indians, have made a significant move to strengthen their squad for the impending Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs, announcing the signings of England’s prolific wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow, Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka, and seasoned English fast bowler Richard Gleeson. This strategic recruitment comes as key overseas players, including England’s Will Jacks and South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch, depart for national duties following the team’s final league match on May 26. The new recruits will be available only if Mumbai Indians, currently sitting fourth in the points table, secure their playoff berth with a crucial win against the Delhi Capitals.
Who Are the New Mumbai Indians Signings?
- Richard Gleeson: A 37-year-old English fast bowler, Gleeson is recognized for his late rise in professional cricket and his ability to deliver pace and accuracy in the T20 format. He was signed at a reserve price of ₹1 crore as a replacement for South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton. Gleeson’s journey is remarkable—he was a PE teacher before breaking into top-level cricket, eventually debuting for England in T20Is in 2022 and impressing with his wicket-taking ability.
- Charith Asalanka: The 27-year-old Sri Lankan captain in white-ball formats, Asalanka is an aggressive left-handed middle-order batter who can also bowl part-time off-spin. Known for his composure and adaptability, he has delivered match-winning performances for Sri Lanka, including being the team’s top scorer in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Asalanka steps in as a replacement for Corbin Bosch and brings both leadership and batting depth to Mumbai’s lineup.
- Jonny Bairstow: An experienced English wicketkeeper-batter and World Cup winner, Bairstow joins Mumbai Indians as a high-profile signing at ₹5.25 crore, replacing Will Jacks. Bairstow, who last played for Punjab Kings in IPL 2024, is renowned for his explosive batting and has a reputation for delivering in high-pressure situations. His international pedigree and IPL experience make him a valuable asset for the playoffs.
Why These Signings Matter
Mumbai Indians’ decision to bring in Gleeson, Asalanka, and Bairstow is a strategic response to the unavailability of several foreign players due to international commitments. The replacements are only eligible to play if Mumbai qualifies for the playoffs, underlining the franchise’s focus on depth and experience for the knockout rounds.
How Will These Players Impact Mumbai Indians?
- Gleeson adds much-needed pace and experience to the bowling attack, especially with his proven T20 credentials and late-career hunger.
- Asalanka strengthens the middle order and offers a spin option, increasing tactical flexibility on spin-friendly pitches.
- Bairstow brings explosive batting and wicketkeeping skills, providing firepower at the top or middle order and stability behind the stumps.
What’s Next?
Should Mumbai Indians secure their playoff berth, these international stars will be available to boost the team’s campaign in the crucial knockout matches. Their inclusion is expected to address gaps left by departing players and could be pivotal in Mumbai’s pursuit of another IPL title.
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Key Facts at a Glance
| Player | Nationality | Role | IPL 2025 Status | Notable Achievements |
| Richard Gleeson | England | Fast Bowler | Replacement (Playoffs) | Late-career rise, T20I debut at 34 |
| Charith Asalanka | Sri Lanka | Middle-order Batter | Replacement (Playoffs) | Sri Lanka captain, T20 WC top scorer |
| Jonny Bairstow | England | Wicketkeeper-Batter | Replacement (Playoffs) | 2019 WC winner, IPL century scorer |
Mumbai Indians’ playoff ambitions now rest, in part, on the impact of these seasoned international recruits, making the upcoming matches a compelling watch for fans and analysts alike.
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