The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is off to a dramatic start with a major controversy—Hardik Pandya has been banned for Mumbai Indians’ first match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
This shocking news has left fans wondering:
- Why was Hardik Pandya banned in IPL 2025?
- Why is Hardik Pandya suspended for the Mumbai Indians' first match?
- How long is Hardik Pandya banned for?
- Why is Hardik Pandya not bowling?
In this article, we break down the real reason behind Hardik Pandya’s suspension, his ban duration, and its impact on Mumbai Indians.
Why was Hardik Pandya Banned in the first match of IPL 2025?
The Main Reason for Hardik Pandya’s Suspension
The reason Hardik Pandya is banned for Mumbai Indians’ first IPL 2025 match is due to his slow over-rate violation in IPL 2024.
During the Indians’ last league match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), MI failed to complete their overs on time.
Why was Hardik Pandya Suspended by BCCI?
- As per IPL’s Code of Conduct, captains are penalized for slow over rates.
- Hardik had already committed two slow over-rate offences in IPL 2024.
- His third violation in MI’s last match resulted in a one-match ban and a ₹30 lakh fine.
- Since the penalty carried over to IPL 2025, Hardik Pandya is banned for the first match against CSK.
Hardik Pandya Banned for How Many Years?
Many fans are confused about whether Hardik Pandya is banned for multiple matches or years.
The truth:
- Hardik Pandya is NOT banned for years.
- His ban is only for one match in IPL 2025 (MI vs CSK).
- He will return to play the Mumbai Indians’ second match against the Gujarat Titans (GT) on March 29, 2025.
Hardik Pandya’s Reaction to His IPL 2025 Ban
Hardik Pandya admitted he wasn’t expecting this penalty to carry over into the new season.
🗣 Hardik Pandya on his suspension:
"Last year, we were just 1.5 to 2 minutes late in completing our overs. At that moment, I didn’t know the consequences. Unfortunately, the rules say this, and I have to accept it."
He also suggested that BCCI should reconsider such bans, as they affect teams in the next season.
Why is Hardik Pandya Not Bowling? Injury Update & Fitness Concerns
Apart from his suspension, fans have been asking: Why is Hardik Pandya not bowling in the IPL?
🔹 Over the past few years, Hardik Pandya has struggled with lower back injuries, limiting his bowling.
🔹 He has played as a specialist batsman in several IPL and international matches.
🔹 Mumbai Indians might use him as a part-time bowler, but his bowling workload will be carefully managed.
How Will Mumbai Indians Cope Without Hardik Pandya?
Mumbai Indians will have to play their first match against CSK without their captain, but they have a strong backup plan:
Suryakumar Yadav to Lead Mumbai Indians Against CSK
In Hardik’s absence, Suryakumar Yadav will captain MI in their season opener.
💪 Surya has already led India in T20Is and has a sharp cricketing mind.
🔥 His aggressive approach could help the Mumbai Indians start IPL 2025 on a high note.
However, MI will also miss their key fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who is recovering from an injury.
Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2025 Schedule: What’s Next?
- March 23: vs CSK (Hardik Pandya banned)
- March 29: vs GT (Hardik Pandya returns!)
- March 31: vs KKR
- April 4: vs LSG
- April 7: vs RCB
Mumbai will hope to bounce back strong once Hardik Pandya and Bumrah return to the playing XI.
Will Hardik Pandya’s Ban Affect Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025?
With Hardik Pandya banned for MI’s first match in IPL 2025 against CSK, the Mumbai Indians will face a tough challenge.
However, with Suryakumar Yadav stepping up as captain and strong backup players, MI will aim to overcome this setback.
💬 Do you think Hardik Pandya’s suspension is fair? Can the Mumbai Indians win without him? Comment below!
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