Suryakumar Yadav will captain the Mumbai Indians in their opening match of IPL 2025 against the Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 23 (Sunday). Regular captain Hardik Pandya will be absent for this match due to a one-match suspension resulting from repeated over-rate infractions last season. The Mumbai Indians were found to be below the required over-rate in their final match of IPL 2024 against the Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede Stadium. Additionally, Hardik faced a 30% fine on his match fee, marking his third offence in the previous year.

“Surya also leads the national team. In my absence, he is the perfect choice for this format and brings excitement as well,” Hardik stated during MI's pre-season press conference in Mumbai on Wednesday.

When questioned about his one-match suspension, Hardik remarked that it was beyond his control. “That situation is not something I can influence. What happened last year is part of the game. We bowled the last over 2-2.5 minutes late, and at that moment, I was unaware of the repercussions. It was unfortunate, but the rules are in place, and I must adhere to them. Whether the penalty should carry over into the next season is a matter for the governing authorities to decide.”

Suryakumar, who serves as the national T20 captain, recently guided the team to a 4-1 victory over England at home. However, his performance was less than stellar, as he scored only 38 runs across five matches in the series.

MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene confirmed that the BCCI has informed the team about Pandya's one-match ban due to three slow over-rate violations committed by the team last season.

In 2024, MI finished at the bottom of the standings, securing only four wins against ten losses during Pandya's inaugural year as captain. He succeeded Rohit Sharma, who had led the team to five championships but was facing challenges at that time.

Hardik emphasized that to improve their performance, the team simply needs to focus on playing well. "It's not complicated. We just need to play good cricket with enthusiasm, support one another, and maintain a positive atmosphere."

Hardik will be available for Mumbai Indians' second match against Gujarat Titans on March 29.

Jasprit Bumrah to miss start of IPL

The return date of ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah remains unconfirmed, as stated by Jayawardene. Bumrah, who was unable to participate in the Champions Trophy due to a back injury sustained during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in January, is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).

“Jasprit Bumrah is at the NCA. We must await their assessment regarding his condition. Currently, his recovery is progressing well, evaluated daily,” Jayawardene mentioned during the pre-season press conference for MI on Wednesday. “He is in good spirits, and his absence poses a significant challenge. He is regarded as the best bowler in the world,” he added.

While Bumrah's return remains uncertain, MI captain Hardik Pandya expressed that having a seasoned player like the 30-year-old in the locker room will be beneficial.

Bumrah is anticipated to reunite with his Mumbai teammates in the first week of April, where he may continue his rehabilitation alongside the team. “I am fortunate to have three captains—Rohit, Surya, and Bumrah—playing with me. They consistently offer support and guidance whenever I need assistance,” Pandya remarked.

Read Also: RCB Fans’ Long Wait: Can Patidar Deliver the IPL Title?

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