Jonny Bairstow Debuts for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025 Eliminator Thriller
In one of the most anticipated moments of this year’s IPL, Jonny Bairstow made his debut for the Mumbai Indians during the crucial Eliminator clash against the Gujarat Titans at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh. For a player of Bairstow’s caliber, this wasn’t just another match—it marked his third franchise appearance in the IPL, adding MI to his list after stints with Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings.
Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, won the toss and opted to bat first in a knockout game that demanded experience, nerve, and impact. And Jonny Bairstow, paired with Rohit Sharma at the top of the order, brought just that. From the very first over, Bairstow looked in control, finding gaps and punishing loose deliveries. One standout moment came when he launched into Prasidh Krishna, smashing 26 runs off a single over—two sixes, two boundaries, and complete domination. It wasn’t just brute force, but calculated aggression.
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This game was not just about debuting; it was about delivering when it mattered most. Bairstow wasn’t new to IPL pressure—he had previously lit up the tournament with a century in Punjab Kings' record chase of 262 against KKR in 2024. Now, wearing the Mumbai Indians blue, he brought that same energy and impact to the table when his new team needed it most.
Joining Bairstow in the debut lineup was Richard Gleeson, another Englishman getting his first taste of MI action. While Gleeson had only played two matches for CSK in the past, his recent form in SA20—where he was the second-highest wicket-taker—made him a valuable asset for the knockout encounter. Though his role with the ball came later in the game, the pressure of playing in a do-or-die match was something he seemed ready for.
The opposition had their own debut stories as well. Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis stepped into the spotlight for Gujarat Titans, replacing Jos Buttler in the XI. A veteran of T20Is with over 1900 runs, Mendis had big shoes to fill, but his inclusion added a new dynamic to the GT lineup.
As the game unfolded, Bairstow’s fearless start provided MI the early momentum, and while wickets fell around him—Tilak Varma and Rohit Sharma among them—the platform had already been set. This performance underlined why players like Bairstow are so sought after in global T20 leagues. He’s not just a name; he’s a game-changer.
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