Mumbai Indians Sign Afghanistan's Mujeeb Ur Rahman for IPL 2025, Replacing Injured Gazanfar

Mumbai Indians have signed Afghan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman for the 2025 IPL season. He replaces 18-year-old A.M. Gazanfar, who has been ruled out due to an injury.

Gazanfar, a rising star in Afghanistan's spin department, sustained an injury during Afghanistan's tour of Zimbabwe. After undergoing tests, it was revealed that he had fractured the fourth vertebra in his spine. The Afghanistan Cricket Board confirmed that Gazanfar will be sidelined for at least four months, meaning he will miss both the Champions Trophy and the IPL.

Mujeeb, who was unsold in the IPL 2024 auction, has been picked up by Mumbai Indians for the 2025 season. The 23-year-old spinner had an impressive run in South Africa's SA T20 League, playing for the Royals. He was the team's best bowler, taking 14 wickets in 12 matches.

Mujeeb has played 256 T20 matches so far, taking 275 wickets at an average of 23.67, with an economy rate of 6.75. He has recorded three spells with four or more wickets and has two five-wicket hauls to his name.

Mumbai Indians wished Gazanfar a speedy recovery and welcomed Mujeeb to the squad for IPL 2025.