Five-time IPL champion Mumbai Indians (MI) added South African wicketkeeper-batsman. quinton de kock He was included in their squad for Rs 1 crore in the IPL 2026 mini-auction. De Kock, who previously represented MI with great success, brings experience, explosiveness and proven consistency to the cash-rich league at the top. Given his current form on the international stage and his impressive IPL numbers, the purchase makes sense on paper.
However, given the team composition, long-term planning and availability of other quality options in the auction, MI could have explored alternative wicketkeeper-batsmen who could offer a different skill set or tactical flexibility.
Here are 3 players MI could have bought in place of Quinton de Kock
jonny bairstow
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England wicketkeeper-batsman jonny bairstow Would have been a strong option for MI. He joined the franchise as a temporary replacement during IPL 2025 and made an immediate impact, showcasing his trademark power-hitting in the two matches he played. Bairstow's aggressive approach at the top of the order is a perfect fit for the T20 format and matches well with MI's traditional attacking brand of cricket.
A potential opening partnership between Bairstow and Rohit Sharma could have been both devastating and entertaining. Additionally, Bairstow's experience in various T20 leagues around the world means he is adept at adapting to different conditions. His ability to dominate the bowlers right from the start could give MI explosive starts on a regular basis.












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