If you tuned in expecting to see Hardik Pandya smashing sixes tonight—well, surprise! He’s NOT playing in MI’s opening clash against CSK! 🤯
As Chennai Super Kings won the toss and chose to bowl first at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, fans were in for a shock—no Pandya in the playing XI! 😳 But why? Injury? Secret mission? Alien abduction? Nope. It’s a BAN!
Why Is Hardik Pandya Banned?
Turns out, Pandya was slapped with a one-match suspension due to an over-rate offence in the last IPL season. Oops! MI fans were all set to see their new skipper take charge, but instead, Suryakumar Yadav will be leading the team tonight.
💡 Fun fact: If MI’s bowlers take too long this season, maybe SKY should start setting alarms instead of field placements. ⏳😂
When Will Pandya Return?
Don’t worry, Pandya fans—he’ll be back in action next match against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium. That’s right, MI’s talisman won’t have to wait long before he’s back smashing bowlers for fun.
Who’s Playing Instead?
With Pandya out, Mumbai Indians have fielded a power-packed squad featuring:
✅ Ryan Rickelton (Hoping for some early fireworks!)
✅ Will Jacks (England’s dynamic hitter in action)
✅ Mitchell Santner (Spin wizard at work)
✅ Trent Boult (Swings it better than a Bollywood romance!)
So, what do you think? Can MI still outclass CSK without their regular captain? Or will MS Dhoni’s legacy continue to haunt them in Chennai? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇🔥
🔗 Stay tuned for more updates on IPL 2025! 🚀