IPL 2025: Suryakumar Yadav to Captain MI Against CSK, Says Hardik Pandya

Mumbai, March 19 (NationPress) India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav will be at the helm for Mumbai Indians in their inaugural IPL 2025 match against Chennai Super Kings on March 23, as confirmed by the regular captain Hardik Pandya.

Pandya is set to miss MI’s first match due to a one-match suspension stemming from a slow over-rate in their IPL 2024 concluding league match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), marking his third infraction of the season.

Suryakumar previously captained MI in a single IPL match back in 2023. "Suryakumar Yadav also leads the Indian team. He will take charge of the Mumbai Indians in the opening game of IPL 2025. I consider myself fortunate to have three captains on my side - Rohit, Surya, and Bumrah. They consistently offer support when I need it," stated Pandya during the pre-season press briefing, which he attended with head coach Mahela Jayawardene on Wednesday.

Discussing the MI-CSK matchup, Jayawardene remarked, "It presents a challenge for both teams. I have always relished this rivalry and am eager for it. There’s a bit more adrenaline for the team, too."

MI will also be without their leading fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who is recovering from a back injury sustained during the Sydney Test in March. Jayawardene mentioned that Bumrah is still in rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. "He remains at the NCA and is being monitored daily. He is healing and remains optimistic; we hope he can rejoin the team soon."

After finishing at the bottom of the points table last season, Pandya emphasized the team’s commitment to improving every facet in IPL 2025. "Our focus is to play quality cricket. Being together at the same moment. Executing processes efficiently. With this talented group, we look forward to enjoying the matches ahead."

"This year marks a fresh start. Many things have transformed; an abundance of love and joy has been infused. There will always be passion and new challenges that excite me. My crucial role is to help the team add value. I am here!" added Pandya.

Both Pandya and Jayawardene concluded by stating that acquiring Deepak Chahar and Trent Boult was pivotal for the five-time champions. "Bringing in Trent Boult was essential. Deepak Chahar too. We aimed for an experienced bowling lineup, ensuring we have players who can handle pressure effectively," remarked Pandya.

"Last season posed several challenges. However, this has been a significant auction, granting us a fresh canvas. With our core team and the new additions, including the returning Trent Boult, we intend to piece together the puzzle and start strong!" added Jayawardene.