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Suryakumar Yadav to take charge for the opener of IPL 2025 for Mumbai Indians with Hardik Pandya serving a one-match suspension
In IPL 2025, Mumbai Indians (MI) will commence its season under Suryakumar Yadav's leadership because regular captain Hardik Pandya will not be available for the first encounter after MI against Chennai Super Kings on 23 March at Chepauk. The latter is currently serving a one-match ban as a punishment for violating the slow over-rate rule during MI's last league match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow SuperGiants (LSG), against which this is his third offence of the season, leading to his suspension.
''Surya leads India as well. He will be my best pick when I'm not around.'' So said Pandya during the MI pre-season press conference in Mumbai at Suryakumar's support. ''In terms of the over-rate matter, it was part of the sport last year. We bowled one and half or two minutes late. At that time, it was not known to me what the consequence would be, so it's unfortunate but it's the rule. Higher authorities will decide about the continuation of the rule next year or so.''
Mahela Jayawardene, coach of MI, confirmed that BCCI has confirmed the ban of Hardik Pandya to the team. "We have been officially communicated that he will miss the game. As Hardik said, then Surya will lead the team, and we are looking forward to that," Jayawardene said.
The T20 captain of India, Suryakumar Yadav, was recently praised for leading the national team to a 4-1 series victory over England. However, his form with the bat left a lot to be desired: just 38 runs from five outings. "Yet, his leadership capabilities are regarded as among the best."
MI retained Pandya for INR 16.35 crore, but the IPL 2024 season was not good for him or the franchise, which could win only four of its 14 games, finishing last in the points table. On his captaincy, he said, "I am very confident. I was confident back then, during the Champions Trophy, and I am confident now. My confidence is always high."
He also pointed out the advantage of having experienced leaders like Suryakumar, Rohit Sharma, and himself in the squad. "I will be fortunate enough to have three captains playing with me. It adds more experience. If I need help, I know there are three different minds who have led India in different formats. They can always be there to support me," added Pandya.
Apart from the absence of Pandya, MI will also miss their star pacer Jasprit Bumrah in the opening game due to injury. It will be interesting to see how Suryakumar Yadav paves the way for the five-time champions as all eyes are glued to the team as it gears up for IPL 2025 in Chennai.(source-News18)
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