Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya addressed his absence from the team’s opening match of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The all-rounder is serving a one-match suspension after violating the over-rate rule three times during the 2024 season.
While the first two infractions resulted in match fee deductions, a third offence led to a 100 percent match fee fine and a one-match ban. Since Pandya’s final over-rate violation occurred in MI’s last match of the 2024 season, the suspension carried over to IPL 2025.
MI exceeded the over-rate limit in three IPL 2024 matches—against PBKS and LSG (home and away). Hardik Pandya admitted he didn’t know the ban would carry over after MI’s 18-run loss at Wankhede.
“I think that is something out of my control. Last year what occurred was part of the sport, I think we bowled one and a half or two minutes late. At that point of time I did not know the consequences of what could happen.”
“It is unfortunate, but it is the rule. Now will they continue with this rule next year, I think it is up to the higher authorities. They can see into it, and how it can be done,” Pandya said during MI’s pre-season press conference.
Rishabh Pant also faced a one-match ban for three over-rate violations with Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2024. However, since his third offence occurred mid-season, he served the suspension within the same campaign.
“Ideal Choice” – Hardik Pandya Picks Suryakumar Yadav as Stand-in Captain for CSK Clash
Mumbai Indians have confirmed that Suryakumar Yadav will captain the team in their upcoming match against CSK. The Indian T20I skipper received backing from both the captain and head coach to take on the leadership role in the absence of key players.
“I am lucky that I have 3 captains playing with me. If I need help, I know that there are 3 different minds who have led India in different formats. Surya obviously leads India as well. So, when I am not there, he is the ideal choice in this format, and an exciting one too,” Hardik Pandya said.
“We have been officially communicated that Hardik has to miss the first game. Surya will lead the team, we are looking forward to that,” MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene said.
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