Mumbai Indians are ringing in the changes in anticipation of a deep playoff run, in which case they will need extra depth and more options as their overseas players with prior commitments will depart. MI have confirmed that three international stars — English stars Jonny Bairstow and Richard Gleeson, as well as Sri Lankan white ball captain Charith Asalanka — are set to join the team should they make it to the playoff rounds next week.
MI found themselves in a position where three of their international stars in their current lineup would be on the way out after the league stage comes to an end, with Will Jacks included in England’s white-ball squad, and their two South Africans Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch heading to England with South Africa’s team for the World Test Championship final.
With such key members of their team set to depart, MI have invested in much-needed cover. Bairstow and Asalanka can occupy positions in the top three, while Gleeson provides another pace-bowling option with Reece Topley already awaiting his first game of the season on the bench.
MI look to secure fourth and final playoff spot
“Mumbai Indians have picked Jonny Bairstow, Charith Asalanka and Richard Gleeson as replacements for Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch and Ryan Rickelton who will leave for national duties,” the IPL’s statement confirmed.
