Hardik Pandya was handed a one-game ban due to over-rate at the end of last season. Here, we take a look at the list of three players who can replace Hardik Pandya for the first game of IPL 2025 against CSK.
Mumbai Indians’ first match of IPL 2025 will be against CSK. However, it is a big blow that Hardik Pandya will not be a part of this match. Suryakumar Yadav is likely to skipper the team instead of Hardik.
1) KL Shrijith
With Ryan Rickelton in such good form, KL Shrijith would not have had a chance to play in the first few games. However, KL might now play the first match for MI against CSK. The Karnataka player has been in good form. If he does well with the bat, there is a chance that he could be persisted for the next few games.
2) Raj Bawa could replace Hardik Pandya for the first game
Raj Bawa is one of the players who can replace Hardik Pandya for the first game of IPL 2025 against CSK. Mumbai Indians picked up young all-rounder Raj Bawa towards the end of the auction. A few years ago, he was touted to be the next Hardik Pandya. However, Raj’s career has not picked up. Nevertheless, it would be a great chance for him if he gets a game against CSK.
3) Naman Dhir
He would have been the first-choice Impact Player for MI. However, in the first game, he could be a part of the starting XI. He is therefore one of the best options to replace Hardik against CSK.
