IPL 2025 Match 3 Highlights: CSK Edge MI by 4 Wickets in Chennai Thriller
The third match of IPL 2025, played on March 23 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, delivered a classic Mumbai Indians (MI) vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK) showdown. CSK emerged victorious by 4 wickets with 5 balls to spare, chasing down MI’s 155/9 in a tense finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Powered by Ruturaj Gaikwad’s blazing fifty and Rachin Ravindra’s composure, CSK overcame early hiccups to seal the deal at home. Here’s a detailed recap of this gripping encounter.
Mumbai Indians’ Struggles: A Modest Total
MI’s innings got off to a shaky start in the Powerplay (0.1–6.0 overs), managing 52/3 as CSK’s bowlers struck early. Suryakumar Yadav (38 off 33) and Tilak Varma (27 off 25) steadied the ship with a 50-run fourth-wicket stand off 34 balls, taking MI to 76/3 by the first Strategic Timeout at 9 overs. However, the momentum shifted when Tilak’s review for a wicket in the 12.6th over was struck down, triggering a collapse.
MI reached 100 in 13.6 overs, but regular wickets kept them in check. By the second Strategic Timeout at 16 overs, they were reeling at 118/6, with Naman Dhir (17) and Mitchell Santner (5) at the crease. A successful CSK review in the 17.6th over dismissed Santner, and despite a late flourish from Deepak Chahar (28* off 14), MI limped to 155/9. CSK’s disciplined bowling, combined with Chennai’s spin-friendly conditions, ensured MI couldn’t post a daunting total.
Key Moments:
- Powerplay woes: 52/3 in 6 overs.
- Suryakumar-Tilak’s 50-run stand in 34 balls.
- Late resistance: Chahar’s unbeaten 28 lifted MI to 155.
Chennai Super Kings’ Chase: Gaikwad and Ravindra Shine
CSK’s chase began with intent, racing to 62/1 in the Powerplay. Ruturaj Gaikwad unleashed a barrage of boundaries, scoring a scintillating 50 off 22 balls (6×4, 3×6), while Rachin Ravindra played the anchor role. Their second-wicket partnership of 50 off 26 balls set the tone, with CSK reaching 50 in 5.3 overs. By the first Strategic Timeout at 6 overs, Gaikwad (42) and Ravindra (16) had MI on the ropes.
Gaikwad’s departure after his fifty triggered a mini-wobble, but Ravindra held firm, reaching his own 50 off 42 balls (2×4, 2×6). CSK crossed 100 in 10.6 overs, and despite losing wickets, Ravindra’s composure kept them in control. At the second Strategic Timeout (16 overs, 125/5), Ravindra (44*) and Ravindra Jadeja (5*) faced a nervy finish with 31 needed off 24 balls. MI’s review for Jadeja’s wicket in the 14.2nd over was unsuccessful, and CSK powered past 150 in 17.6 overs, sealing the chase at 156/6 in 19.1 overs.
Key Moments:
- Powerplay dominance: 62/1 in 6 overs.
- Gaikwad’s 50 off 22 balls in a 50-run stand with Ravindra.
- Ravindra’s finishing touch: 50* to guide CSK home.
Match Flow and Tactical Highlights
- MI Innings: Early wickets in the Powerplay and a failed review (12.6) hampered MI’s progress. Impact Sub Vignesh Puthur replaced Rohit Sharma at 19.6 overs, but the damage was done.
- CSK Innings: Gaikwad’s aggression and Ravindra’s resilience neutralized MI’s bowling. CSK’s decision to chase paid off, with dew aiding the second innings on a typically slow Chepauk pitch.
Standout Performances
- Ruturaj Gaikwad (50 off 22): A captain’s knock that lit up the Powerplay and earned him Player of the Match honors.
- *Rachin Ravindra (50 off 42)**: The glue that held CSK’s chase together.
- Suryakumar Yadav (38 off 33): MI’s top scorer in a losing cause.
- *Deepak Chahar (28 off 14)**: A late cameo that gave MI a fighting total.
Impact Players
- MI: Vignesh Puthur stepped in for Rohit Sharma, while subs like Corbin Bosch remained unused.
- CSK: No Impact Sub noted, but their core XI delivered when it mattered.
Chennai’s Winning Edge
CSK’s victory was a testament to their batting depth and home advantage at Chepauk. Gaikwad’s explosive start took the pressure off, while Ravindra’s calm head ensured no late collapse. MI’s inability to capitalize on early breakthroughs and a modest total left them vulnerable, especially as dew made bowling tougher in the second innings.
What It Means for IPL 2025
This 4-wicket win with 5 balls remaining boosts CSK’s confidence early in the season, reinforcing their dominance over MI at home. For MI, it’s a wake-up call to regroup after a below-par batting display. The match underscored Chepauk’s reputation as a fortress for CSK and set the stage for more blockbuster clashes in IPL 2025.
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For a detailed scorecard, visit ESPNcricinfo. The IPL 2025 rollercoaster continues—stay tuned!