Kochi, Jan 9 (IANS): For the first time, superstar Mohanlal will not be taking the field in the latest edition of the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL).

While he would be the non-playing captain the Kerala Strikers, the team will be led by rising star Asif Ali.

Edavela Babu, manager of the Kerala Strikers, told IANS this time Mohanlal will be only part of the team and will not be playing.

"This time there will be no matches in Kochi and we are having our first match Sunday when we take on the Chennai team at Hyderabad," said Babu, who is also the secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).

Mohanlal of late has been under treatment for pain in his leg and hence has decided to be away from the ground.

Also, this would be the first time that the team is regrouping after ace director Priyadarshan and Lissy decided to separate.

Both Priyadarshan and Lissy were a constant source of inspiration for the team in the previous editions.

"Lissy is expected to come and support us," said Babu.

The Kerala team, which finished runners-up in the last edition to Karnataka Bulldozers, is in Pool B with Mumbai Heroes, Chennai Rhinos and Veer Marathi.

The final will be held in Hyderabad Feb 1.