Despite enduring a horrid start to the IPL 2025 season, the Mumbai Indians stand on the cusp of making it to the playoffs. The 5-time champions are sitting 4th on the table with 14 points. They are left with two more games and need to win both in order to seal the playoff spot. As there is no margin for error, the MI management has taken a necessary precaution, which will save them from strength debilitation.
Also Read | IPL 2025: PBKS Sign Ex-RCB Pacer as Replacement for Injured Lockie Ferguson
Mumbai Indians Eye Jonny Bairstow as Replacement for Will Jacks
Will Jacks, who has been a starter for the MI franchise this season, has emerged as an integral part of the team. However, he has received an England call-up for the white ball series against the West Indies. Hence, in case Mumbai Indians reach the Playoffs of IPL 2025 then Jacks will not be available with the Mumbai Indians. The Mumbai Indians are aware of the development, and courtesy of a report by ESPNcricinfo, MI are working on bringing in a replacement.
The Hardik Pandya-led side wants to substitute a hard-hitting batsman with another hand-hitting Englishman. As per reports, Jonny Bairstow has been taken into the loop by the franchise. He will replace Jacks in the playoffs, if they make it to the stage.
Jonny Bairstow was a seasoned participant in the IPL until last season. He was with the PBKS till last season and had represented SRH before. He went unsold in the IPL 2025 auctions. However, it seems destiny wants him to feature in this edition of the Indian Premier League as well.
Following a disastrous start, the Mumbai Indians made a staggering return and constructed an indomitable winning momentum. Just before the season halted, their winning run ended with a defeat against the Gujarat Titans. However, nothing is still lost as their qualification is still in their hands. The remaining two fixtures are against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings. Being known to come out good in clutch situations, Mumbai Indians will be the favorites to progress to the playoffs.