By Manvindar Singh 
Mumbai Indians have made a key addition to their squad ahead of the IPL 2025, signing Afghan spinner Mujeeb-ur-Rahman as a replacement for the injured Allah Ghazanfar. The young off-spinner has been ruled out of the tournament due to an injury, paving the way for the experienced Mujeeb to make his return to the IPL.
Mujeeb Brings IPL and T20 Experience to MI
Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, known for his mystery spin and deceptive variations, is no stranger to the Indian Premier League. The 23-year-old off-spinner has featured in 19 IPL matches, scalping 19 wickets at an economy rate that makes him a valuable asset in the shortest format.
His signing at INR 2 Crore provides MI with a seasoned T20 campaigner who has previously played for franchises like Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad. Given his international experience with Afghanistan and in various T20 leagues worldwide, Mujeeb’s presence strengthens MI’s spin attack significantly.
Mumbai Indians’ Spin Attack Gets a Boost
Mumbai Indians, historically known for their strong pace battery, have gradually built a formidable spin department. With Piyush Chawla, Shreyas Gopal, and Kumar Kartikeya already in the squad, the addition of Mujeeb-ur-Rahman provides an extra dimension.
His ability to bowl in the powerplay and middle overs, along with his knack for breaking partnerships, makes him a valuable addition for MI as they aim to reclaim IPL glory.
Why Mujeeb is a Smart Signing for MI
Powerplay Specialist: Mujeeb’s ability to bowl with the new ball can give MI a tactical advantage in the early overs.
Variation & Mystery: He brings a mix of carrom balls, off-breaks, and deceptive googlies, making him tough to read.
T20 League Experience: Having played in Big Bash League, Caribbean Premier League, and The Hundred, he thrives in franchise cricket.
Spin-Friendly Conditions: With multiple IPL venues favoring spinners, his presence adds depth to MI’s bowling attack.
MI’s Road to IPL 2025 – The Bigger Picture
Mumbai Indians, the five-time IPL champions, are heading into IPL 2025 with a revamped squad. With big names like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya, MI will be looking to dominate once again.
However, injuries and last-minute squad changes are part of every IPL season, and replacing Allah Ghazanfar with an experienced campaigner like Mujeeb ensures MI remains a formidable unit.
Will Mujeeb Get a Starting Spot?
The big question remains: Will Mujeeb-ur-Rahman make it into MI’s playing XI?
If MI prefers an extra spinner on turning tracks, Mujeeb could feature in key games.
His competition will be with other spinners like Piyush Chawla and Shreyas Gopal.
With his experience, he could be a tactical weapon in specific matchups, especially against teams with left-handers.
Key Takeaways
Mujeeb-ur-Rahman replaces Allah Ghazanfar in Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2025 squad
Afghan spinner brings IPL and global T20 experience to MI
MI’s spin department strengthens ahead of a competitive season
Potential X-factor bowler in powerplay and middle overs
Zainab Shafiq