Top 5 Potential Replacements for Injured Jasprit Bumrah in MI Squad for IPL 2025

India has faced a major setback with the news that Jasprit Bumrah will miss the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a lower back injury during BGT 2024-25. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially confirmed this news, leaving fans worried not just about Bumrah’s participation in the prestigious tournament, but also his availability for the entire 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season with Mumbai Indians.

Bumrah’s absence creates a major issue for Mumbai Indians, who have long relied on his exceptional death bowling and match-winning abilities. The MI squad will now need to find a solid replacement to maintain their bowling strength and intensity. Here are the potential candidates to fill Bumrah’s shoes for IPL 2025-

1. Navdeep Saini

Navdeep Saini, known for his express pace and bounce, could also be a good option for Mumbai Indians. His previous stints with Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals showcase his ability to perform in the IPL. Though his career has been inconsistent, Saini can bring intensity to MI’s pace attack with speeds regularly touching 145 km/h. His experience in international cricket and capacity to bowl in various phases of the game could make him an essential part of the squad as a replacement for Bumrah.

2. Shardul Thakur

The experienced Shardul Thakur could prove to be a valuable addition to Mumbai Indians if they want an established Indian pacer. Thakur’s ‘golden arm’ reputation, especially when it comes to breaking partnerships, could work wonders for MI. Not only does Thakur offer depth in bowling, but he also brings much-needed batting ability—a bonus that Bumrah’s absence leaves behind. Having played for teams like Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals, Thakur has ample IPL experience, making him a reliable and safe pick for MI.

3. Shivam Mavi

Shivam Mavi is another exciting option for Mumbai Indians. Known for his pace and ability to extract movement with the new ball, Mavi has IPL experience with Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans. He is versatile enough to bowl in both the powerplay and death overs, and when fully fit, his pace could be a game-changer for MI. Injuries have been a concern in the past, but Mavi’s potential makes him a smart choice to fill Bumrah’s void, offering both short-term and long-term value for the franchise.

4. Chetan Sakaria

For a left-arm pacer, Mumbai Indians could look to Chetan Sakaria. Known for his swing and delivery variations, Sakaria has impressed in the IPL with Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Although he doesn’t boast Bumrah’s express pace, his ability to mix deliveries effectively could be an asset, especially at the Wankhede Stadium, which favors such bowlers. Sakaria could bring a fresh angle to MI’s pace attack, offering a new dimension and variety.

5. Kartik Tyagi

Kartik Tyagi, a product of India’s U-19 system, could be a great fit for Mumbai Indians. He has already made an impact in the IPL with Rajasthan Royals, impressing with his ability to bowl in high-pressure situations. Tyagi’s raw pace, consistent speeds above 140 km/h, and ability to bowl yorkers—an area Bumrah has mastered—make him a compelling candidate for the role. His performance in IPL 2021, where he defended four runs in the final over against Punjab Kings, highlights his clutch skills. If MI is looking for a young, fiery pacer with potential, Tyagi could be a top pick.

Mumbai Indians now face the crucial decision of selecting Bumrah’s replacement for IPL 2025. While Kartik Tyagi and Shivam Mavi bring youthful aggression and raw pace, Shardul Thakur and Navdeep Saini offer experience and reliability. Chetan Sakaria could provide a unique left-arm angle that the team currently lacks. Regardless of who takes the field, stepping into Bumrah’s shoes will be no easy task. MI will need a bowler who can deliver in high-pressure situations and help maintain their dominance in the IPL.

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