It is a momentous day for cricket fans around the globe as the IPL 2025 season kicked off with an exciting opener between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI). Among the most anticipated highlights was the long-awaited return of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, affectionately known as ‘Thala’ among the CSK faithful, who stepped onto the field for the first time in nearly a year. His appearance instantly uplifted the spirits of thousands of loyal fans who have followed him throughout his legendary career.
Fans were not just excited about Dhoni’s return but also the reunion of another CSK legend, Ravichandran Ashwin, who donned the yellow jersey once again after a decade-long absence. The atmosphere in the MA Chidambaram Stadium was electric as supporters reminisced about the glorious moments from earlier years and looked forward to reliving them.
In what could only be described as a dream start, Ashwin, making his comeback under the CSK banner, showcased his prowess by picking up a crucial wicket during MI’s innings. The seasoned spinner was brought into the attack in the fifth over, a strategic move that would pay off swiftly. He delivered a stunning off-stump ball that did not accurately connect with English all-rounder Will Jacks, who attempted to loft it over the mid-off fielder. Shivam Dube, strategically positioned, took a brilliant catch, dismissing Jacks for just 11 runs off 7 deliveries—an electrifying moment that signaled Ashwin's capability to still dominate on the field.
This dismissal left MI in a struggling position, reflecting on their precarious score of 36 for 3. The early wickets were crucial in the match, especially as MI hoped for a strong opening, having faced two challenging seasons prior. The falling of star player Rohit Sharma, out for a duck in his first over, combined with the dismissal of Ryan Rickelton, left MI reeling and scrambling for runs.
The match witnessed a tactical bowling strategy from CSK, and their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and opted to bowl, a decision he confidently explained. “I don't know how the pitch will play, hope to adapt as the game goes on,” Gaikwad stated. His tactical insights led to early breakthroughs thanks to Khaleel Ahmed, who removed Rohit Sharma and followed it up with another important wicket. Ashwin’s timely wicket of Jacks left Mumbai reeling at a delicate 36 for three.
Despite the setbacks, MI’s stand-in skipper Suryakumar Yadav and the promising Tilak Varma steadied the ship with a significant 49-run partnership before panic resurfaced in the Mumbai camp. Yadav seemed on track to lead MI to a solid total when MS Dhoni, with his trademark sharp reflexes, executed a lightning-fast stumping that left Yadav returning to the pavilion for 25. This act of brilliance from Dhoni disrupted MI’s momentum, triggering a domino effect of dismissals as Noor Ahmed stepped in, yielding a spectacular four-wicket haul.
The evening continued to feature a dramatic narrative as CSK's bowlers, especially the spin duo of Ashwin and Noor, took charge. Noor Ahmed dismantled MI’s middle order with precision, claiming wickets and contributing to Mumbai’s meager total of 155 runs for nine wickets after their 20 overs. Noor's performance marked a historical achievement, with the best bowling figures ever recorded by a CSK bowler against MI.
As the match progressed, the pressure began to mount on MI’s batting lineup, which saw multiple key players departing early, including the loss of Jacks and other critical batsmen. Khaleel Ahmed’s pace led to dismissals that created chaos in MI’s batting order. With MI reeling at 118 for 7, the seasoned Deepak Chahar's late cameo, where he scored 28 runs off 15 balls, infused some life into the innings and brought them to a respectable score.
Cue a roar from the sold-out stadium as Dhoni's fans rallied behind their home team, anticipating the chase to sit squarely in CSK’s favor, given the target of 156. The tone of the game shifted each time Dhoni made a move, running the show behind the stumps, orchestrating plays while sharing heartfelt moments with Ashwin, reflecting on their extended camaraderie.
The match’s excitement is palpable as the second half is set to begin. CSK fans are ready, their hearts poised, hoping for a victorious chase led by their beloved Dhoni. Each delivery will be chronicled in anticipation, and as history unfolds in Chennai, the IPL season promises to deliver thrilling cricket for everyone to experience.
The 2025 IPL season could be a renaissance for both Dhoni and Ashwin, legends returning to the team that launched their careers ahead of embarking on their next chapter in cricket history.
This season poses real stakes for both champions, and as the dust settles on this thrilling opener, one thing is for sure: with tales of nostalgia and fierce competition, the IPL 2025 has already turned into an event not to be missed.
