The Mumbai Indians have been dealt a significant blow in their IPL 2025 campaign with the news that promising spinner Vignesh Puthur has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury. In a swift move to fill the gap, the five-time champions have signed experienced leg-spinner Raghu Sharma as his replacement, hoping to maintain their momentum as the business end of the tournament approaches.
Vignesh Puthur’s Breakout Season Cut Short
Vignesh Puthur, the young left-arm wrist spinner from Kerala, made an immediate impact in his debut IPL season. He burst onto the scene with a memorable three-wicket haul against Chennai Super Kings and went on to play five matches, claiming six wickets at an economy rate of 9.08. Puthur’s knack for breaking crucial partnerships and his calmness under pressure quickly made him a valuable asset for Mumbai Indians.
Unfortunately, his season has been cut short by a bone stress reaction in both shins, an injury that requires careful management and rest. Despite the setback, Mumbai Indians have confirmed that Vignesh will remain with the squad to focus on his recovery and rehabilitation under the guidance of the team’s medical and strength & conditioning staff.
Mumbai Indians Turn to Raghu Sharma
With Vignesh ruled out, Mumbai Indians wasted no time in bringing in Raghu Sharma, a seasoned leg-spinner from Punjab, as his replacement. Sharma, aged 32, joins the main squad from the Registered Available Player Pool (RAPP) at his base price of Rs 30 lakh. This marks his maiden appearance in the IPL, though he brings a wealth of domestic experience to the table.
Raghu Sharma’s Domestic Record at a Glance:
- 11 first-class matches: 57 wickets at an average of 19.59 (best figures: 7/56)
- 9 List A matches: 14 wickets (best: 4/37)
- 3 T20 matches: 3 wickets
Sharma has represented both Punjab and Puducherry in domestic cricket and was already part of the Mumbai Indians’ support bowlers group before his elevation to the main squad. His proven ability to take wickets and maintain pressure will be vital as Mumbai look to strengthen their spin department.
What This Means for Mumbai Indians
The timing of this change is crucial for Mumbai Indians. After a slow start to IPL 2025, the team has found its rhythm, stringing together five consecutive wins and climbing to third place in the points table. The addition of Raghu Sharma offers captain Hardik Pandya another spin option as MI aim to keep their winning streak alive and secure a playoff berth.
Key Points:
- Vignesh Puthur made a strong debut, taking six wickets in five matches.
- Injury: Bone stress reaction in both shins rules him out of IPL 2025.
- Raghu Sharma steps in, bringing experience and fresh energy to the squad.
- MI are currently in third place, eyeing a strong finish to the league stage.
Vignesh Puthur’s IPL 2025 Highlights
- Debut: Three wickets against Chennai Super Kings
- Total wickets: Six in five matches
- Economy rate: 9.08
- Notable for breaking key partnerships and handling pressure situations
Looking Ahead: Sharma’s Big Opportunity
For Raghu Sharma, this is a golden opportunity to showcase his skills on the IPL stage. With MI in a strong position and the playoffs in sight, Sharma’s performances could play a pivotal role in the team’s title ambitions. Meanwhile, fans and teammates will be hoping for Vignesh Puthur’s speedy recovery and return to competitive cricket.
FAQs
1. Why was Vignesh Puthur ruled out of IPL 2025?
Vignesh Puthur suffered a bone stress reaction in both shins, which requires rest and rehabilitation, ruling him out for the remainder of the season.
2. Who is Raghu Sharma, Mumbai Indians’ new signing?
Raghu Sharma is a 32-year-old right-arm leg-spinner from Punjab with a strong domestic record. He joins MI for his first IPL stint, replacing the injured Vignesh Puthur.
3. How did Vignesh Puthur perform in IPL 2025 before his injury?
He took six wickets in five matches, including a standout three-wicket haul on debut against Chennai Super Kings, and was praised for his composure in key moments.
4. Will Vignesh Puthur stay with the Mumbai Indians squad?
Yes, Vignesh will remain with the team to focus on his recovery and rehabilitation with the help of the franchise’s medical and support staff.
5. What impact will Raghu Sharma have on Mumbai Indians’ campaign?
Sharma’s experience and wicket-taking ability are expected to strengthen MI’s spin attack as they push for a playoff spot in the crucial final phase of IPL 2025.
Conclusion
The loss of Vignesh Puthur is a setback for Mumbai Indians, but the signing of Raghu Sharma brings fresh hope and experience to the squad. As MI continue their charge toward the playoffs, all eyes will be on Sharma’s debut and Puthur’s recovery. The team remains united, determined, and ready to tackle the challenges ahead in IPL 2025.