IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya banks on MI's other 'three captains'
What's the story
Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper Hardik Pandya has highlighted the importance of senior players Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah.
The gesture comes ahead of their IPL 2025 opener against Chennai Super Kings.
The appreciation comes after a rocky phase in the last season when fans were split over MI's decision to replace Rohit with Pandya as skipper on his return to the squad.
Notably, Pandya will miss the opener against CSK owing to a one-match ban.
Resilience
Pandya's journey from criticism to captaincy
The decision to appoint Pandya as captain last season was met with widespread booing and a disappointing season for MI, who finished last.
But the tides have turned now. Pandya bounced back after winning the ICC T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy with Team India.
In a pre-season press conference, the MI skipper opened up on his evolving relationship with these key players.
Team spirit
Pandya acknowledges support from MI superstars
Pandya also thanked Rohit, SKY, and Bumrah at the press conference.
"I am lucky that I have three captains playing with me - Rohit, Surya and Bumrah. They always place an arm around my shoulder and are there when I need any help," he said.
This statement emphasizes the bond between the players and how they have helped him during tough days on the field.
Suspension
Pandya to miss first match of IPL 2025
Despite the positive shift in dynamics, Pandya won't feature in MI's opening match due to a slow over-rate offense committed by MI in their last match of IPL 2024.
As per IPL Governing Council rules, if a side commits this offense for the third successive time, the captain will be fined ₹30 lakh and receive a one-game ban.
Therefore, Suryakumar will lead MI in the CSK game.
Probable XI
What can be their XI?
With Pandya set to miss MI's opener, Suryakumar will be at the helm. All-rounder Arjun Tendulkar can be a like-for-like replacement for Pandya.
Meanwhile, MI will likely miss the injured Bumrah as well.
Probable XI: Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton (wicket-keeper), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Robin Minz, Naman Dhir, Arjun Tendulkar, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Trent Boult.