Hardik Pandya Banned for Over-Rate Offences, Suryakumar to Lead Against CSK
Mumbai Indians have announced Suryakumar Yadav as their stand-in captain for the IPL 2025 opener against Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on March 23. Regular skipper Hardik Pandya will miss the match due to a one-game suspension for repeated over-rate violations in IPL 2024.
Hardik addressed the issue at MI’s pre-season press conference, stating, “It’s out of my control. What happened last season is part of the game, and I have to follow the process.” The MI all-rounder was also fined 30% of his match fee for his third offence in 2024.
BCCI Confirms One-Match Ban, Mahela Jayawardene Reacts
MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene confirmed that the BCCI communicated the penalty to the team. Hardik, who took over from Rohit Sharma last season, had a tough debut as captain, with MI finishing at the bottom of the table with just four wins.
Despite the setback, Hardik remains optimistic, stating, “We just need to play good cricket, stay united, and support each other.” He will return to lead MI in their second match against Gujarat Titans on March 29.
Jasprit Bumrah’s IPL 2025 Return Uncertain
Mumbai Indians’ star pacer Jasprit Bumrah is set to miss the start of IPL 2025 as he continues his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) following a back injury.
Jayawardene provided an update, saying, “Bumrah’s progress is being monitored daily. He is in good spirits, but his return date is uncertain.”
MI will hope to have their ace bowler back in early April as he integrates with the squad for the rest of the tournament.
