April 20: The much-anticipated IPL 2025 clash between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) began with MI captain Hardik Pandya winning the toss and electing to bowl first at the Wankhede Stadium against MS Dhoni’s side.
The decision reflects Mumbai’s preference to chase under lights, especially on a surface that is traditionally favorable for batting and tends to assist seamers early on. Hardik, looking to guide MI back to consistent form, will be banking on his bowlers to deliver early blows and contain CSK’s top-heavy batting order.
For CSK, MS Dhoni, playing what could be his final IPL season, continues to command massive attention. With the bat first, the Super Kings will aim to set a strong total, relying on experienced campaigners like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Ravindra Jadeja.
The MI vs CSK rivalry, one of the fiercest in IPL history, adds extra spice to the contest — especially with Hardik Pandya and MS Dhoni leading two of the most successful franchises in IPL history.
As fans pack the Wankhede and millions tune in, all eyes will be on how Dhoni’s CSK handle the pressure of batting first against a well-balanced Mumbai bowling attack.