IPL 2025 Preview: CSK vs MI – Key Players, Pitch Conditions

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CSK vs MI Match Preview

The much-anticipated third match of IPL 2025 will see the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face off against the Mumbai Indians (MI) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 23, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST. 

This clash not only marks the beginning of a new season for both teams but also reignites one of the fiercest rivalries in IPL history.

Match Overview

  • Fixture: Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians
  • Date: March 23, 2025
  • Time: 7:30 PM IST
  • Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
  • Live Streaming: JioCinema, Star Sports Network

Team Updates

Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

CSK enters IPL 2025 with a strong squad and a renewed focus on their spin bowling department. 

Under the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is looking to improve upon last season’s fifth-place finish, CSK has made strategic additions, including seasoned players like Ravichandran Ashwin and young talents like Noor Ahmad. 

The team aims to leverage their home advantage with a potent spin attack that includes stalwarts like Ravindra Jadeja and newcomers such as Deepak Hooda.

Key players to watch:

  • Ruturaj Gaikwad: The captain and opening batsman who is pivotal for setting the tone.
  • Ravindra Jadeja: A key all-rounder known for his exceptional fielding and bowling skills.
  • MS Dhoni: The legendary wicketkeeper-batsman continues to be a guiding force for the team.

Mumbai Indians (MI)

MI comes into this match looking to bounce back from a disappointing previous season where they finished at the bottom of the table. 

Led by Hardik Pandya, MI has retained its core group while adding depth to their squad with players like Sam Billings and experienced bowlers such as Jasprit Bumrah. 

The team aims to capitalize on its batting strength, featuring power hitters like Ishan Kishan and the explosive Suryakumar Yadav.

Key players to watch:

  • Hardik Pandya: The captain and all-rounder who can change games with both bat and ball.
  • Suryakumar Yadav: A dynamic batsman known for his aggressive batting style.
  • Jasprit Bumrah: A crucial bowler capable of delivering in high-pressure situations.

CSK vs MI Head-to-Head Record

Historically, CSK and MI have been closely matched in their encounters:

Matches PlayedCSK WinsMI Wins
371720

While MI holds a slight edge overall, CSK has been dominant in recent years, winning four out of their last five encounters.

Pitch Report

The pitch at MA Chidambaram Stadium is known for its spin-friendly conditions, which tend to favor slower bowlers as the match progresses.

  • Average first innings score: Approximately 160 runs
  • Teams batting first win percentage: ~54%

Weather Conditions

The weather forecast for Chennai indicates clear skies with temperatures expected to be around 28°C during match time. Dew may play a role later in the evening, potentially affecting bowlers’ grip on the ball.

Match Insights

Both teams bring unique strengths to this contest:

  • CSK will look to exploit their spin-heavy attack on home turf.
  • MI aims to unleash their powerful batting lineup to counter CSK’s bowling threats.
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Raushan Kumar
I am primarily a sports person and like to present and write about it. I enjoy writing blogs on professional and personal topics.