Mumbai Indians Name Suryakumar Yadav as Captain After Hardik Pandya’s Ban In IPL 2025

Suryakumar Yadav will captain Mumbai Indians in their opening match of IPL 2025 against Chennai Super Kings on March 23 (Sunday) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Regular captain Hardik Pandya will miss the season opener due to a one-match ban for repeatedly violating the over-rate rule last year. MI was found to be short of the required over rate in their final match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants at Wankhede Stadium. Additionally, Hardik was fined 30% of his match fee as it was his third offence last year.

“Surya leads India as well. When I am not there, he is the ideal choice in this format and an exciting one as well,” Hardik said in MI’s pre-season press conference in Mumbai on Wednesday.

When asked about his one-match suspension, Hardik stated that it was beyond his control. “It’s out of my hands. What happened last year is just part of the game. We bowled the last over 2-2.5 minutes late, and at that moment, I wasn’t aware of the consequences. It was unfortunate, but the rules are clear, so I have to accept the process. Whether the penalty should carry over to the next season or not, that decision lies with the higher authorities.”

Suryakumar is the national T20 captain and recently led the side to a 4-1 triumph over England at home. However, his batting form wasn’t particularly impressive and he managed just 38 runs in the five outings during the series.

Also Read: “Showed Kumbh from Space,” Sunita Williams’ Family to NDTV

It’s no rocket science

MI had finished at the bottom of the heap, managing just four wins against 10 losses in 2024, which was Pandya’s debut year as captain.He took over from Rohit Sharma, who led the side to five trophies but was struggling at that stage.

Hardik mentioned that to make a turnaround, the key is simply to play good cricket. “It’s not complicated. We just need to play well, keep a positive attitude, stay united, and support each other.”

Hardik will be back for Mumbai Indians’ second match against Gujarat Titans on March 29.

Also Read: Daily Green Chillies with Meals Can Harm Digestion

Jasprit Bumrah to miss start of IPL

Jayawardene revealed that the return date for ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is still uncertain. Bumrah, who missed the Champions Trophy due to a back injury sustained during the last Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in January, is currently at the NCA.

“Jasprit Bumrah is at the NCA, and we have to wait for their feedback on his condition. Right now, things are progressing well, and it’s on a day-to-day basis,” Jayawardene said during MI’s pre-season press conference on Wednesday. “He is in good spirits, and not having him is a challenge. He is the best bowler in the world,” he added.

While Bumrah’s return remains uncertain, MI captain Hardik Pandya emphasized that having an experienced player like the 30-year-old in the dressing room will be beneficial.

Bumrah is expected to join his Mumbai teammates in the first week of April and may continue his rehabilitation with the team. “I’m fortunate to have three captains playing alongside me — Rohit, Surya, and Bumrah. They are always there to support me, offering guidance and assistance whenever I need it,” said Pandya.

Also Read: Google agrees to pay $28m in racial bias lawsuit