The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) set the tone for their TATA IPL 2025 campaign with a spectacular four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI) at the electrifying MA Chidambaram Stadium. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, the defending champions displayed a masterclass in cricket, anchored by Noor Ahmad’s magical spell and Gaikwad’s blistering knock.
Noor Ahmad’s Magic and MI’s Struggle (Watch Online High Light )
Opting to bowl first, CSK made their intentions clear right from the start. Khaleel Ahmed struck gold in the opening over, removing Rohit Sharma and later dismissing Ryan Rickelton, leaving MI rattled at 18/2. Adding to the drama, Ravichandran Ashwin marked his return to the CSK camp with a bang, dismissing Will Jacks with his very first delivery.
Amidst the early chaos, Suryakumar Yadav (29 off 26) and Tilak Varma (31 off 25) tried to resurrect MI’s innings with a steady partnership of 51 runs. But the real turning point came with the introduction of Noor Ahmad. The Afghan prodigy dismantled the opposition with figures of 4/18, including the prized wickets of Yadav and Varma. MS Dhoni’s lightning-fast stumping of Yadav was a crowd favorite, with the Chepauk erupting in jubilation.
Despite a late cameo by Deepak Chahar (28* off 15), MI could only manage a modest 155/9, thanks to CSK’s relentless bowling effort. Khaleel Ahmed wrapped up with impressive figures of 3/29, perfectly complementing Noor Ahmad’s heroics.
Gaikwad and Ravindra: The Chase Masters
CSK’s chase began on a shaky note as Rahul Tripathi fell early to Deepak Chahar. But Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra quickly steadied the ship, showcasing poise and aggression. Gaikwad’s elegant strokeplay and Ravindra’s calmness proved to be the perfect combination, with the skipper racing to his fifty off just 22 balls, highlighted by a breathtaking inside-out six over extra cover.
However, the MI bowlers, led by debutant Vignesh Puthur (3/32), made a stunning comeback. Puthur dismissed Gaikwad (53 off 26) and quickly followed up with crucial scalps of Shivam Dube and Deepak Hooda, making the game wide open.
With 31 runs needed off 24 balls, the pressure mounted, but Ravindra rose to the occasion. He reached his half-century with a glorious slog sweep and kept the scoreboard ticking. Jadeja (17 off 15) provided valuable support until a dramatic run-out brought MS Dhoni to the crease with just four runs needed.
While the crowd anticipated a Dhoni special, Ravindra fittingly sealed the victory with a towering six, remaining unbeaten on 65 off 45 balls. The Chennai crowd roared as CSK claimed their first win of the season with style.
A Commanding Start for CSK
This emphatic victory showcased CSK’s all-round brilliance. From Noor Ahmad’s wizardry with the ball to Gaikwad and Ravindra’s masterclass in batting, the defending champions delivered a statement performance. With this win, CSK fans have every reason to believe that their team is set for another glorious IPL campaign.