Suryakumar Yadav To Lead Mumbai Indians In Their IPL 2025

Suryakumar Yadav is set to take the reins as captain for the Mumbai Indians (MI) in their much-anticipated season opener. This comes as regular skipper Hardik Pandya faces a one-match suspension following a slow over-rate penalty incurred during their last match.

Hardik Pandya was penalized for MI's slow over-rate during their last league clash against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This marked his third offense of the season, resulting in a one-match suspension and a hefty fine of INR 30 lakh.

"We have been officially communicated that he [Hardik] has to miss [the first game]," Mahela Jayawardene, the MI head coach, said in a press conference in Mumbai on Wednesday, confirming that Suryakumar would be leading the side for the game.

Reflecting on his unexpected ban, Hardik said he was not aware of the consequences of maintaining a slow overrate in last season's game.

"That is out of my control. Last year, what occurred is part of the sport. We bowled the last over one and a half or two minutes late. At that point, I didn't know the consequences," Hardik said. "It is unfortunate, but the rules say it. I will have to go with the process. Next season, if they continue or not continue [with this rule], I think that is on the higher authorities. They can definitely see what best can be done.

"Surya obviously leads India [in T20Is] as well. When I'm not there, he is the ideal choice in this format."

Fans won’t have to wait long to see Hardik back on the pitch, as he will return for MI's second match against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad on March 29. So, mark your calendar now to experience the MI action in IPL 2025.