The 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) commenced on March 22, featuring the inaugural match between the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). However, the spotlight is firmly on the highly anticipated 'El Clasico' clash between the Mumbai Indians and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Both teams are among the most successful in IPL history, each having secured five championship titles. In the lead-up to this exciting encounter, Hardik Pandya and MS Dhoni shared a touching moment during a training session.

During a practice session on Saturday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Mumbai Indians' captain Hardik Pandya was spotted embracing CSK icon MS Dhoni. 

Hardik was reluctant to let go of Dhoni, and the two were seen sharing a laugh. The Indian all-rounder also playfully touched Dhoni's biceps and shoulders, likely praising the fitness of the World Cup-winning captain.

Following their friendly exchange, the two engaged in an extended conversation before returning to their respective training routines.

Focusing on the upcoming match between MI and CSK, Hardik Pandya will be absent from the game, with Suryakumar Yadav stepping in as the captain of the Mumbai Indians. Pandya's absence is due to a slow over-rate violation incurred during the franchise's previous match last season.

Additionally, Jasprit Bumrah will not participate in the opening match as he is still in the process of recovering from a back injury.

‘Difficult to fill shoes of Bumrah and Hardik’

Ahead of the match against CSK, Mumbai Indians' acting captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed that the absence of Hardik and Bumrah will be felt, as they are challenging players to replace them.

During a pre-match press conference, Suryakumar Yadav remarked, “It is indeed tough to fill the roles of such exceptional players. However, this is part of the game, and we must continue.”

He further stated, “There are players ready to step up and eager to take the field tomorrow. While finding replacements for them is a challenging endeavour, we have individuals capable of shouldering that responsibility.”

Suryakumar Yadav also addressed concerns regarding his recent performance, having struggled during the five-match T20I series against England earlier this year.

"Are you referring to my form in the IPL or for Team India? My performance in the IPL has been satisfactory. I believe that the more effort you put in, the luckier you become. If runs are meant to come, they will come at the right time. I am fundamentally process-oriented and enjoy putting in hard work during practice. If runs are destined to follow, they will do so eventually," he explained.

"When I practice effectively and strike the ball well in the nets, I enter the game with a clear mindset, knowing exactly what I need to accomplish. That is the moment I thrive in; I feel confident that I am in a good place to contribute runs for the team," he concluded.

Read Also: Kagiso Rabada: "Change of Pace is Key for Fast Bowlers in IPL"

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