IPL 2025: 'Welcome Mufasa, Says Kieron Pollard As He Lifts Jasprit Bumrah In Joy Ahead Of MI vs RCB Clash; Video

Mumbai Indians' batting coach Kieron Pollard was left in awe with Jasprit Bumrah joining their camp ahead of the massive fixture against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Wankhede Stadium on April 7, Monday. During a practice session, Pollard went on to tell Bumrah 'Welcome Mufasa' and lifted him in joy as the franchise shared a video on social media.

Having missed Mumbai Indians' first four games due to spending time on recovering from a back injury, the right-arm speedster joined their squad as they look to return to winning ways. The five-time champions are once again under pressure after managing only one win in four matches thus far.

Mufasa is a character of 'The Lion King' movie franchise and is the King of the Pride Lands.

Watch the video of Kieron Pollard's endearing gesture for Jasprit Bumrah:

The 31-year-old, who has played a crucial role in Mumbai Indians' dominance in IPL over years, was one of the silver linings amid their woeful campaign last year. He was the third-highest wicket-taker of IPL 2024 with 20 scalps in 13 innings at 16.80.

"He's available" - Mahela Jayawardene on Jasprit Bumrah ahead of clash vs RCB

At the pre-game press conference, Mahela Jayawardene confirmed the ace Indian speedster's availability and stated, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo:

"He's available, he's training today, and should be available. Boom's coming back from a pretty decent layoff, so we need to give him that space. Not expect too much. Knowing Jasprit he will be up for it. We're very happy to have him in the camp, the experience he brings, that extra voice out there in the middle, chatting with Boulty [Trent Boult], chatting with Deepak [Chahar] or any other younger bowler, giving that advice is also very valuable for us. That's what we're looking forward to from him