Pakistan, March 19 -- Suryakumar Yadav will lead Mumbai Indians in their IPL 2024 opener against Chennai Super Kings as regular captain Hardik Pandya serves a one-match ban. The suspension resulted from Mumbai's slow over-rate in their final league match last season, marking their third offense. Pandya expressed disappointment but acknowledged the rules.

Despite Pandya's absence, Mumbai Indians have strong leadership options, including Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar. Bumrah, however, will miss the early matches due to a back injury. Pandya appreciated the experience within the squad, emphasizing the advantage of having multiple former Indian captains.

Mumbai and Chennai, both five-time IPL champions, remain fierce rivals. ...