The IPL 2025 opener saw Chennai Super Kings (CSK) get the better of Mumbai Indians (MI) by 4 wickets at a roaring Chepauk Stadium. The crowd was electric, and so were CSK, starting the season in style.
MI Falter After Early Blow
Sent in to bat, MI’s innings got off to a shaky start. Khaleel Ahmed was on fire, removing Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton within the first three overs. “We were under pressure straight away,” Rohit admitted later, calling it a “disappointing start.”
Returning to CSK colors after nearly a decade, Ravichandran Ashwin struck gold with his very first delivery, getting the crowd on their feet.
But the standout moment belonged to Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad, whose spell of 4/18 tore through MI’s middle order. “I just wanted to keep it simple and bowl to my strengths,” Noor said with a grin after the match.
MI managed to scrape together 155 runs, thanks to some late hitting from Tilak Varma and Tim David, but it felt below par on this surface.
Gaikwad Leads from the Front
Chasing 156, CSK lost Rahul Tripathi early, but skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad took charge. Blazing away to a rapid 53 off 26 balls, he brought the crowd to its feet with his fastest IPL fifty in just 22 balls. “The crowd gave us that extra push,” Gaikwad said, smiling at the post-match chat. “This place is something else.”
MI Fight Back, But Ravindra Stands Tall
Just as CSK looked comfortable, debutant Vignesh Puthur gave MI a fighting chance, picking up 3 quick wickets in a fiery spell.
With tension rising, Rachin Ravindra kept his cool. He calmly worked the singles and waited for the bad balls, eventually bringing up his fifty with a towering six.
Jadeja & Dhoni Light Up the Finish
With the finish line in sight, Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni came in to a huge roar from the stands. Dhoni’s mere presence sparked excitement, but it was Rachin who sealed it with another big six, finishing unbeaten on 65 from 45 balls.
“I just focused on staying calm,” Rachin said after the game. “Happy to get us home in front of these amazing fans.”
MI Left Searching for Answers
Without Jasprit Bumrah, MI’s bowling lacked its usual bite, especially at the death.
Perfect Start for CSK
CSK’s sharp bowling and composed batting gave them a perfect start to the tournament.
