IPL 2025: The 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is about to begin and fans around the world are eagerly waiting for it. One of the most anticipated encounters is between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
However, Mumbai Indians face a challenging start in the absence of key players Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah. This article details the probable playing XI for Mumbai Indians in their first match against CSK, analyses the impact of these absences and the strategies that the team can adopt.
Table of Contents
Hardik Pandya’s Suspension and Its Implications
Due to a suspension for over-rate violations last season, dynamic all-rounder and MI captain Hardik Pandya may miss the opening match. His absence creates a void not only in the batting and bowling departments but also in leadership. Pandya’s aggressive batting style and his knack of breaking partnerships with the ball have been crucial in MI’s successes over the years.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Injury Concerns
Another big blow for MI is the unavailability of their pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who is recovering from a back injury he suffered earlier this year. Reports suggest that Bumrah is expected to join the team in early April, provided he gets clearance from the medical team at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Bumrah’s deadly yorkers and death-overs expertise have been crucial for MI, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt.
Leadership Dynamics: Suryakumar Yadav at the Helm
Suryakumar Yadav could take over the captaincy role in Pandya’s absence. Yadav has had a wonderful journey with MI, showing consistency and talent in the middle order. His experience and calm nature make him a suitable stand-in captain. Leading the team in such conditions will test his strategic acumen and ability to motivate the team.
Rohit Sharma’s Return to T20s
Prolific opener and former Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma is set to play a T20 match for the first time since announcing his retirement from T20 Internationals after winning the 2024 World Cup. Sharma’s experience and batting skills at the top of the order will be crucial for Mumbai Indians, especially in laying a strong foundation against CSK’s strong bowling attack.
Emergence of Arjun Tendulkar
Arjun Tendulkar, son of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, is all set to make his mark in the IPL. As a left-arm pacer, Arjun adds variety to the Mumbai Indians bowling lineup. His inclusion not only adds weight to his surname but also raises the expectations of him performing well under pressure. The match against CSK could be the platform to showcase his talent and temperament.
IPL 2025: Predicted Playing XI for Mumbai Indians
Considering the current scenario, here’s a probable lineup for MI against CSK:
| Position | Player | Role | Key Contribution |
| 1. | Rohit Sharma | Opener | Bringing experience and stability at the top. |
| 2. | Will Jacks | Opener | An aggressive batsman capable of exploiting powerplays. |
| 3. | Tilak Varma | No. 3 Batsman | A promising talent with a solid technique. |
| 4. | Suryakumar Yadav | Captain, No. 4 Batsman | The linchpin of the middle order. |
| 5. | Naman Dhir | No. 5 Batsman | A versatile batsman adding depth to the lineup. |
| 6. | Robin Minz | Wicketkeeper, No. 6 Batsman | A young talent behind the stumps and with the bat. |
| 7. | Corbin Bosch | All-rounder, No. 7 Batsman | Filling the void left by Pandya with his dual skills. |
| 8. | Mitchell Santner | Spinner, No. 8 | Bringing control and variation in the middle overs. |
| 9. | Deepak Chahar | Pacer, No. 9 | Leading the pace attack in Bumrah’s absence. |
| 10. | Arjun Tendulkar | Pacer, No. 10 | Adding a left-arm seam option to the arsenal. |
| 11. | Trent Boult | Pacer, No. 11 | The seasoned campaigner providing swing and experience. |
Also Read: IPL 2025: 3 players who can replace Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya as openers in his absence
