Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya has expressed his gratitude for having seasoned leaders by his side as he gears up to lead the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions in the upcoming season.
Pandya, who returned to Mumbai Indians last year after leading Gujarat Titans for two seasons, acknowledged the wealth of experience within the squad and the guidance available to him.
“I am lucky that I have three captains who are playing with me. It adds more and more experience for me. I know that there are three different minds who have led India in different formats and with so many years of experience. They can put an arm around my shoulder and always be there for help,” Pandya said in a press conference.
The three captains Pandya referred to are likely Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav—all of whom have led India at various levels. Rohit Sharma, MI’s most successful captain, led the franchise to five IPL titles. Bumrah has captained India in T20Is and Test matches, while Suryakumar Yadav is the current T20I skipper.
With such an experienced core, Pandya will have strong support as he aims to guide Mumbai Indians to success in the new IPL season.
Suryakumar Yadav to Captain MI in Opening Match
Due to a one-match suspension, Pandya will miss Mumbai Indians’ opening IPL 2025 clash against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. Suryakumar Yadav will lead MI in his absence.
Pandya received the suspension after Mumbai Indians maintained a slow over-rate in their final match of IPL 2024 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This was the third time he had been penalized, resulting in a one-match ban and a fine of ₹30 lakh.
Addressing the issue, Pandya explained:
“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.”
Despite the setback, Pandya backed Suryakumar Yadav as the ideal choice to lead the team in his absence.
“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.”
With a strong leadership core and a star-studded squad, Mumbai Indians will look to bounce back after a disappointing last season.