IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians receive timely boost as Will Jacks rejoins squad

Mumbai Indians received a significant boost after English all-rounder Will Jacks confirmed his availability for the IPL 2025 through an Instagram post on Friday. This comes at a critical juncture as the tournament prepares to resume on May 17 after an unexpected one-week hiatus.

The IPL 2025’s final phase was postponed following escalating geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. The disruption was triggered by a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, on April 22, which led to heightened national security measures.

Among the fallout was an air strike alert that caused the May 8 clash between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala to be called off, throwing the availability of several overseas players into question.

Jacks, a pivotal figure in Mumbai Indians’ campaign, has featured in 11 of their 12 games this season. In nine innings, he has accumulated 195 runs while also contributing with the ball, claiming five wickets through his handy off-spin. His performances have often come during high-pressure scenarios.

Notably, Jacks has twice been named Player of the Match for decisive contributions in key home victories over Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants. His impact has been both timely and influential, providing much-needed balance to the Mumbai side.

However, questions linger over his continued presence in the IPL, as he has been named in England’s white-ball squads for the upcoming series against West Indies, which begins on May 29. This scheduling overlap has cast doubt on whether he can remain with Mumbai throughout the tournament’s conclusion.

Jacks’ impact has been felt in most crunch situations for Mumbai, as is evident with him having earned Player-of-the-Match honours in crucial home wins against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants.

The uncertainty surrounding the overseas contingent has only intensified with the looming ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled for June 11. Several key players, most notably Australia’s Mitchell Starc and South Africa’s Jake Fraser-McGurk, have already opted to withdraw from the remainder of the IPL to prepare for the marquee event.

Despite these complications, the league is set to resume with renewed energy. Saturday’s fixture will see Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Kolkata Knight Riders at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, marking the return of IPL 2025 action after its brief suspension.

This article first appeared on Mid Day