Jonny Bairstow becomes the latest star to join the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He will replace the injured Will Jacks, who is expected to leave for England’s one-day series with the West Indies. The Mumbai Indians, who are with a single game remaining, sit on the precipice at fourth and last play-off qualification hole. With just two matches remaining in the league phase, each match is all the more important!
From his very first conversations with the franchise, Bairstow had expressed how desperate he was to play in the IPL. His excitement to compete in this highly coveted tournament really shows how vital this opportunity is for the young man’s career.
The one day series against the West Indies is due to start on Thursday 29 May. Will Jacks will not be available for the play-offs should the Mumbai Indians qualify, further solidifying Bairstow’s role in the team if they advance.
Further to Bairstow’s inclusion, Yorkshire have brought in Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Olly Stockwell and James Wharton – their winter recruitments. The club has already signed up English pace bowler Richard Gleeson as well as Sri Lankan all-rounder Charith Asalanka. They will replace South African players Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch, who leave to join their national duties prior to the play-offs.
While it’s disappointing to lose Jonny for the next few weeks, this is a tremendous opportunity for him. Playing in the latter stages of the IPL at this stage of his career is hugely significant,” said Gavin Hamilton, Yorkshire’s general manager of cricket.
Hamilton emphasized Bairstow’s enthusiasm regarding the IPL: “Jonny has been open with us around his desire to play in the IPL from our very first conversation with him, and we’d like to wish him the best of luck in the coming weeks.”
Bairstow’s involvement with the Mumbai Indians will limit the amount of time he can play for Yorkshire. He is ruled out of the next County Championship game against Nottinghamshire. Depending on how far Mumbai go in the tournament, he could be ruled out for as many as two Vitality Blast games too.
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