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Mumbai Indians (MI) faced a tough setback in their final league match of IPL 2025, losing to Punjab Kings (PBKS) and missing out on a direct Qualifier 1 spot. This defeat not only impacted their playoff positioning but also marked an emotional moment as the franchise bid goodbye to three of their key overseas players—Ryan Rickelton, Corbin Bosch, and Will Jacks—who had to leave the tournament to join their national teams. As MI gear up for the high-pressure Eliminator, the team’s farewell to these players was heartfelt and reflective of their valuable contributions.
MI’s emotional tribute their foreign players post PBKS match in IPL 2025
Following the match against PBKS, Mumbai Indians’ head coach Mahela Jayawardene took a moment to honour the departing players in a touching video shared by the franchise. Jayawardene’s speech was filled with warmth and gratitude, highlighting not just the cricketing skills but also the camaraderie and positive attitude these players brought to the squad.
Addressing Rickelton and Bosch, both of whom will join South Africa’s squad for the World Test Championship final against Australia.
Jayawardene said, “From myself, the support staff and the team, just wanted to wish Ryan and Boschy good luck with the Test Championship finals. You guys have been fantastic with great contributions, and sad to see you guys leave. But all the best.” His words reflected the respect and admiration the team had for their contributions on and off the field.
Turning to Jacks, who is set to join England’s ODI and T20I squads for their upcoming series against the West Indies, Jayawardene added pride and encouragement:
“Well, good luck mate. National duty after a while, you have been called up. Very proud. Same attitude. Do well, and we will miss you. But thank you guys, you guys have been brilliant. Great attitude helping each other out and all that. So good luck.”
This emotional farewell underscored the close-knit nature of the Mumbai Indians team and the importance of these players in their journey.
Here’s the video:
Three stars, one heartfelt goodbye 🥹
Ryan, Corbin & Will… shine now in international colours. Until we meet again 🙌💙#MumbaiIndians #PlayLikeMumbai #TATAIPL #PBKSvMI pic.twitter.com/xOMEBRTSID
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) May 27, 2025
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New faces and high stakes in the eliminator for MI
With Rickelton, Bosch, and Jacks departing, Mumbai Indians will welcome fresh talent like the Johnny Bairstow into their squad as they prepare for the knockout phase. The pressure is on as MI face the uncertainty of the Eliminator, where a single loss means elimination from the tournament. Their opponents are yet to be decided, pending the outcome of the final league match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Punjab Kings’ victory over MI ensured their direct entry into Qualifier 1, but Mumbai Indians must now regroup quickly and strategize with their revamped squad. The departure of key overseas players means the team’s Indian core and incoming replacements will need to step up and deliver under pressure.
