‘These decision are never …’ – Jonny Bairstow reacts after signing short-term deal with Mumbai Indians

Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have signed three players on short-term contracts. The move comes after Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton, and Corbin Bosch are set to fly back after the end of IPL 2025 league phase commitment. Will Jacks has been named in England’s white-ball squad to face West Indies. Veteran wicketkeeper batter Jonny Bairstow comes in as the replacement for Jacks. Rcikelton and Bosch are set to play the WTC finals for South Africa against Australia starting on 11 June. 

The veteran English star has been playing county cricket for Yorkshire and has scored 525 runs so far from six games. The 35-year-old scored 89 and 77 in the last match for Yorkshire against Surrey before signing for MI. Once the news was confirmed, Bairstow took to his Instagram handle and posted a story. 

Bairstow wrote “Thrilled to share that I’ll be joining Mumbai Indians for the remainder of the IPL season! These decisions are never straightforward-especially given how much I’ve enjoyed leading Yorkshire this year. I’m incredibly grateful to the club for their understanding, continued support and look forward to getting stuck back in on my return”

The English veteran batter also wrote “This is a fantastic opportunity, and I’m excited to contribute to MI’s campaign. Can’t wait to get started and experience the energy of Mumbai! See you soon”. Bairstow will join the team if MI qualifies for the playoffs. Mumbai has two games remaining, first of which is against Delhi Capitals on Wednesday. 

Jonny Bairstow’s IPL journey so far

English wicketkeeper and batter Jonny Bairstow has played a total of 50 matches in the IPL. The 35-year-old has scored 1589 runs with an average of 34 and strike-rate of 144 with two centuries and nine fifties. Bairstow has also taken 28 catches and has effected four stumpings as a wicketkeeper. 

Making his IPL debut in 2019 for Sunrisers Hyderabad, the Englishman opened with David Warner and made an instant impact. Bairstow scored 114 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and added 185 for the first wicket with Warner. After three seasons with SRH, Bairstow moved to Punjab Kings where he played two seasons. 

In IPL 2024, the veteran English player scored 108 not out off just 48 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders. This knock helped PBKS chase down the 262-run target set by KKR with eight balls to spare creating a massive record. This is the highest ever chase by a team in all of T20 cricket. Mumbai Indians will first look to qualify for the playoffs and then have their troika of reinforcements come in. Jonny Bairstow’s overall pedigree and experience could come in handy for a possible assault on the sixth title.