Just days away from the commencement of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, Mumbai Indians (MI), the five-time champions, have received a significant setback. Reports indicate that their star batter, Suryakumar Yadav, is poised to sit out the franchise’s opening match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on March 24.
The world’s top-ranked T20I batter has been sidelined since his last appearance in the away three-match T20I series against South Africa in December 2023. Subsequently, Yadav has been absent from cricketing action at all levels and underwent surgery for a sports hernia. Although expectations were high for his return in time for the upcoming 17th edition of the IPL, it appears unlikely at present.
As per reports from Cricbuzz, the key MI batter has not yet received clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA), where he is presently undergoing rehabilitation for his persistent injury. His next fitness evaluation is slated for March 21.
With Mumbai Indians scheduled to play their inaugural IPL 2025 match against GT at the Narendra Modi International Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 24, indications suggest that the versatile batter may miss several more IPL fixtures, with MI set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their subsequent encounter on March 27.
Furthermore, considering the impending ICC T20 World Cup following the IPL, the National Cricket Academy (NCA) appears to be exercising caution regarding the fitness of crucial Indian players. Notably, just a few hours ago, Suryakumar Yadav posted a heartbreak emoji on his Instagram story, sparking speculation regarding his availability for IPL 2025.
Just a day before reports emerged regarding Suryakumar Yadav’s availability, Mumbai Indians’ head coach Mark Boucher addressed the matter during the team’s pre-season press conference. Boucher stated that the star middle-order batter is currently under observation by the BCCI medical team, and the franchise is eagerly awaiting an update on his condition.
“We are awaiting updates on Suryakumar from the BCCI. We have always been dealing with various fitness issues, but we are fortunate to have a world-class medical team. While we may face setbacks due to fitness concerns, we must continue moving forward. As the coach of Mumbai Indians, I naturally hope to see our best players featuring in all matches. I have a strong attachment to my players, and I understand that they may encounter minor injuries. In such cases, I rely on our medical team to guide us on how to proceed,” Boucher remarked.
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