Suryakumar Yadav will step up to lead the Mumbai Indians in their highly anticipated IPL 2025 season opener against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk. This decision comes as regular captain Hardik Pandya is serving a one-match suspension, a penalty incurred due to a slow over-rate infraction at the conclusion of the previous season.
Adding to the leadership challenge, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is also sidelined due to injury. Given his recent experience captaining India in T20 Internationals, Suryakumar’s appointment is a logical choice. Hardik Pandya, alongside head coach Mahela Jayawardene, confirmed Suryakumar’s temporary captaincy during a pre-season press briefing.
“Suryakumar Yadav currently leads India in T20Is. He will take charge of the Mumbai Indians for our opening match,” Hardik stated, addressing questions about the stand-in captain for the crucial clash.
The Mumbai Indians’ roster boasts an impressive array of leadership experience, with three players who have captained India. Rohit Sharma, who led Mumbai Indians for 11 seasons (2013-2023) and currently captains India in Tests and ODIs, brings a wealth of knowledge. Suryakumar Yadav is the current Indian T20I captain, and Jasprit Bumrah has also led India in Test matches.
“I feel fortunate,” Hardik remarked. “I have three captains within the team. This provides significant experience. Should I need any assistance, I have access to three distinct perspectives from individuals who have captained India across different formats and possess extensive experience.” He added, “They are there to support me, and I view this as a tremendous advantage.”
Hardik Pandya will return to lead the team in their second match of the season, an away fixture against the Gujarat Titans. The Mumbai Indians will then play their first home game at the Wankhede Stadium on March 31 against the Kolkata Knight Riders. Sources and related content
