Mumbai Indians’ regular captain Hardik Pandya has been suspended for one match due to a slow over-rate violation during the previous Indian Premier League (IPL) season. As a result, he will miss Mumbai Indians’ opening match of IPL 2025. In his absence, Suryakumar Yadav will take on the captaincy duties. Mumbai Indians will face Chennai Super Kings in their first match on Sunday.
This match is often referred to as the ‘El Clasico’ of IPL, as both teams are the most successful in the league. The term ‘El Clasico’ originates from Spanish football, where the Barcelona vs. Real Madrid match is called by this name due to their historic rivalry in La Liga. Similarly, in the IPL, Chennai and Mumbai are the most successful franchises, having won five titles each.
Suryakumar Yadav, who is also India’s T20 captain, recently led the national team to a 4-1 series victory against England at home. However, his batting form was not impressive, as he managed only 38 runs in five matches.
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Speaking at Mumbai Indians’ pre-season press conference, Pandya said, “Suryakumar also captains the Indian team. When I am not available, he is the ideal choice to lead.”
Mumbai Indians’ head coach Mahela Jayawardene confirmed that the BCCI had informed the team about Pandya’s one-match suspension due to three slow over-rate violations in the last season. Mumbai Indians had a tough IPL 2024 campaign, winning only four matches while losing ten. It was Pandya’s first year as MI captain after replacing Rohit Sharma, who led the team to five IPL titles.