MI Signs Bairstow, Gleeson, and Asalanka as Temporary Replacements Ahead of Playoffs

Mumbai Indians (MI) have strengthened their squad ahead of a possible IPL 2025 playoff run by bringing in Jonny Bairstow, Richard Gleeson, and Charith Asalanka as temporary replacements for outgoing overseas players Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch, all of whom are set to depart for national duty. 🏏 Why the Replacements? Will Jacks, Rickelton, and Bosch are all heading to the UK to join their respective national teams for international fixtures and WTC prep. With Bairstow’s T20 experience, Gleeson’s pace, and Asalanka’s finishing ability, MI has ensured solid backup for critical roles during high-stakes knockout matches. 🔥 Context: Playoff Race MI (14 pts, NRR +1.156) and DC (13 pts, NRR +0.260) are head-to-head for the last playoff berth. They face each other on May 21 at Wankhede. If MI win: They qualify, and replacements will be activated for playoffs. If MI lose: The playoff race continues to final league games. 🧠 Final Take: With a sharp eye on depth and match readiness, MI’s management has made savvy replacement calls, bringing in seasoned international T20 names. Whether these players take the field depends entirely on Wednesday’s result vs DC — a potential virtual knockout. All three will leave after MI's final league game on May 26 vs Punjab Kings in Jaipur. This means MI must restructure their overseas core for the playoffs, provided they qualify. Thanks for the detailed information — here's a succinct overview of how Mumbai Indians’ overseas transitions are shaping up ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs, with player form and context included: Bairstow is the marquee addition — a proven IPL performer who brings explosiveness and experience. Gleeson adds depth to the pace battery, especially valuable with Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management in mind. Asalanka is a left-handed middle-order option and leadership presence.