England batter Jonny Bairstow, who was unsold in the mega auction, is reportedly in conversation with Mumbai Indians (MI) as he could join the five-time champions as a replacement for Will Jacks if the franchise makes it to the playoffs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Jacks has joined MI for the remaining two matches of the league phase.
However, he will leave the Hardik Pandya-led team as he has been selected in England’s squad for the upcoming ODIs and T20Is against the West Indies, which starts on May 29. The round-robin stage of the ongoing season ends on May 27.
According to ESPNcricinfo, Bairstow is ready to replace his countryman if he gets the NOC from the England and Wales Cricket Board. The experienced wicketkeeper-batter hasn’t played for England since June 2024. He would travel to the sub-continent nation after leading Yorkshire against Surrey in the County Championship match and would miss one Championship contest and two T20 Blast games if the deal with MI see daylight.
Jacks has scored 195 runs in nine innings at an average of 24.38 and a strike rate of 129.14. England’s all-rounder has picked up five wickets as well.
Meanwhile, Bairstow has been a part of 50 IPL games, amassing 1,589 runs at an average of 34.54 and a strike rate of 144.46.
MI have 14 points after 12 matches, having won seven and lost five. MI will take on Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium on May 21.
