Afghanistan’s rising spin star, Allah Ghazanfar, has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy due to a L4 vertebra fracture, sidelining him for at least four months. This unfortunate injury means he will also miss the IPL 2025 season, where he was set to play for Mumbai Indians (MI) after securing a ₹4.8 crore deal in the mega auction.
With Ghazanfar out of action, MI might be on the lookout for a replacement spinner. Here are three top contenders who could fill his spot in the squad.
1. Mujeeb Ur Rahman – The Mystery Spinner
Mujeeb Ur Rahman, another Afghan talent, is well-known for his tricky variations. He combines off-breaks, leg-spin, and deceptive googlies, making him a tough bowler to read. Having played in various T20 leagues, including the IPL, Mujeeb could be a like-for-like replacement for Ghazanfar.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s T20 Performance:
| Criterion | T20Is | IPL |
|---|---|---|
| Matches | 49 | 19 |
| Wickets | 63 | 19 |
| Economy Rate | 6.33 | 8.18 |
| Best Figures | 5/20 | 3/27 |
MI’s spin department could benefit from his unpredictable bowling style, making him a strong contender for Ghazanfar’s replacement.
2. Keshav Maharaj – The Experienced Option
If MI is looking for experience and stability, South African spinner Keshav Maharaj could be a great pick. His left-arm spin and ability to control the flow of runs make him a reliable choice in high-pressure games. He has also played in different T20 leagues, including the SA20 2025, proving his adaptability.
Keshav Maharaj’s T20 Performance:
| Criterion | T20Is | IPL | SA20 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matches | 39 | 2 | 9 |
| Wickets | 38 | 2 | 8 |
| Economy Rate | 7.34 | 6.50 | 6.91 |
| Best Figures | 3/27 | 2/23 | 2/18 |
His ability to control the middle overs and his international experience make him a valuable option for MI.
3. Adil Rashid – The Wicket-Taking Leg-Spinner
England’s veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid is another excellent choice for MI. Known for his variations and ability to trouble batters in the middle overs, Rashid has played in several T20 leagues, including a brief stint in the IPL.
Adil Rashid’s T20 Performance:
| Criterion | T20Is | IPL |
|---|---|---|
| Matches | 124 | 3 |
| Wickets | 131 | 2 |
| Economy Rate | 7.36 | 9.10 |
| Best Figures | 4/2 | 2/23 |
His experience at the highest level and his ability to take crucial wickets in the middle phase make him a strong candidate for MI.
Who Should MI Pick?
Each of these spinners brings a unique skill set:
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman – Mystery spin and unpredictable variations
- Keshav Maharaj – Control, experience, and left-arm angle
- Adil Rashid – Aggressive leg-spin with wicket-taking ability
With MI aiming for another IPL title, choosing the right replacement for Allah Ghazanfar will be crucial. Who do you think MI should pick?(cricket betting tips)