Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, May 1: Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have officially signed Raghu Sharma, a leg-spinner from Punjab, as a replacement for Vignesh Puthur, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2025 season due to injury.

This marks Raghu's first appearance in the IPL, as he joins the MI squad at the base price of ?30 lakh from the RAPP list. The 32-year-old, born in Jalandhar, has previously represented Punjab and Puducherry in the domestic circuit.

Known for his control and turn, Raghu has an impressive first-class record — 57 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 19.59, including best figures of 7/56. In List A, he has 14 wickets from 9 matches, and in the shortest format, he has claimed 3 wickets in 3 T20 outings.

Vignesh Puthur, meanwhile, made an immediate impact on debut, taking 3 wickets against Chennai Super Kings, including prized scalps like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube. Hailing from Kerala, he was scouted from the Kerala T20 League and made his IPL debut even before playing for his state’s senior team.

Vignesh’s spell of 3/32 on debut was followed by consistent performances, before an untimely injury cut short his promising season. The young left-arm wrist spinner and right-hand batter had also previously served as a net bowler for MI Cape Town, where he trained with Rashid Khan.

Mumbai Indians, who endured a rough start to the 2025 season, are currently back in rhythm, sitting comfortably in the top three of the points table after five consecutive wins. Raghu’s inclusion is expected to bolster their spin options as they eye a strong finish to the campaign.