Mumbai Indians’ Vignesh Puthur Ruled Out of IPL 2025 with Injury; Raghu Sharma Named Replacement

IPL 2025 Injury Blow: MI’s breakout spinner Vignesh Puthur suffers season-ending setback as uncapped Raghu Sharma steps in.

In a massive blow to Mumbai Indians’ campaign, promising left-arm wrist-spinner Vignesh Puthur has been officially ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2025 due to a bone stress reaction in both shins. The franchise confirmed the development on Wednesday, ending what was shaping up to be a breakout debut season for the 24-year-old.

Puthur had turned heads during his debut clash against Chennai Super Kings, delivering a match-winning three-wicket haul and showing signs of becoming MI’s long-term spin asset. His deceptive flight, sharp turn, and fearless body language had fans and analysts drawing comparisons to Kuldeep Yadav in his early years.

However, the young Kerala cricketer’s rise has now been abruptly halted.

“Vignesh complained of discomfort post-training, and subsequent scans revealed bilateral stress reaction in his shins. He’s been advised complete rest and rehab,” said an MI medical team statement.

Raghu Sharma Announced as Official Replacement

In a proactive move, Mumbai Indians have drafted in Raghu Sharma as Puthur’s replacement for the remainder of the tournament. Sharma, a 26-year-old leg-spinner from Punjab, has previously represented Pondicherry in domestic cricket and has been part of MI’s net bowling setup since the 2023 season.

Sharma boasts a strong domestic record, including 42 wickets in 20 T20 matches with an economy rate of under 7.2. Though uncapped at the IPL level, his experience and familiarity with the squad dynamics make him a ready-made plug-in during the crucial final stretch of the league.

“Raghu has earned his shot. He’s been grinding hard in the nets and knows our system inside out,” said MI head coach Mark Boucher. “He brings control and calm — exactly what we need in crunch moments.”

Impact on MI’s Playoff Campaign

Mumbai Indians, currently in contention for a playoff spot, will feel Puthur’s absence, especially on spin-friendly tracks. With Piyush Chawla aging and Shams Mulani used sparingly, Sharma’s inclusion gives the think tank a fresh bowling dimension.

Still, replacing Puthur’s x-factor and left-arm wrist-spin won’t be easy.

Final Word

Vignesh Puthur’s injury is a cruel blow to a player just beginning to find his rhythm in the biggest T20 league in the world. Yet, IPL is often about comebacks — and if his debut was anything to go by, expect Puthur to return hungrier and more dangerous in 2026.

For now, all eyes turn to Raghu Sharma, who suddenly finds himself in the spotlight of Indian cricket’s biggest stage.