Islamabad, Mar 15 2025: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to begin on March 22, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the opening match.
However, multiple teams might miss crucial players at the start of the money rich franchise cricket due to injuries or personal reasons.
Mumbai Indians (MI) could be without pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the initial games, as he recovers from a back injury sustained during the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Similarly, KKR are awaiting updates on the current condition of Anrich Nortje’, with the pacer missing the ICC Champions Trophy due to a back issue.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) may also face setbacks as Mitchell Marsh and Mayank Yadav remain doubtful for the few games at the start of the event.
RCB might also have to start without Josh Hazlewood, while Mumbai Indians will miss Hardik Pandya in their first match due to a one-game suspension.
Below is a list of players who are doubtful or ruled out for the start of IPL 2025:
| Team | Doubtful Players | Ruled Out |
|---|---|---|
| MI | Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya (1st match) | Allah Ghazanfar, Lizaad Williams |
| RCB | Josh Hazlewood | – |
| LSG | Mitchell Marsh, Mayank Yadav | – |
| GT | Gerald Coetzee | – |
| SRH | Pat Cummins | Brydon Carse |
| PBKS | Lockie Ferguson | – |
| KKR | Umran Malik, Anrich Nortje | – |
| CSK | – | – |
| RR | – | – |
| DC | – | Harry Brook |
The absence of the premier pacer Bumrah could be a major concern for Mumbai Indians, as he plays a crucial role in their bowling attack.
The franchise will closely monitor his recovery to avoid any risk of aggravating his injury. Since he has not played competitive cricket since January, his return will require careful planning.
If rushed back too soon, his condition might worsen, impacting not only MI’s campaign but also India’s preparations for the upcoming five-Test series in England.
