The Indian Premier League 2025 kicked off with a blockbuster clash between two giants — Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI). In a nail-biting finish at Chepauk, CSK handed MI their first opening-match defeat in 13 years, clinching the victory by 4 wickets.
Match Recap: CSK’s Confident Chase
Chennai Super Kings chased down the target with just the right mix of caution and aggression. The hero of the match? New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra, who sealed the game in spectacular fashion with a powerful pull shot off the first ball of the final over, smashing fellow Kiwi Mitchell Santner into the stands.
MI’s Spin Gamble Backfires
Interestingly, Mumbai Indians bowled 14 overs of spin — the most in their IPL history. This highlights the spin-friendly conditions at Chepauk this season. Despite using this strategy, MI struggled to contain CSK’s batting attack, especially in the death overs.
Debutant Under Pressure
MI’s decision to target CSK debutant Vignesh Puthur for a net run rate advantage didn’t go as planned. While CSK missed a chance to gain that boost, they focused on securing the crucial two points in the opening match.
What’s Next?
Both teams will reflect on their performances and make adjustments for their next fixtures. While MI will look to bounce back strong, CSK has sent a clear message — they’re ready to dominate this season!