CSK vs MI, IPL 2025: Vignesh Puthur Triple Strikes Keeps Hope Alive for Mumbai Indians
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faced off against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in a thrilling encounter with nail-biting moments and spectacular performances. The match was a perfect showcase of how unpredictable and exciting cricket can be, with momentum shifting several times throughout the game.
Early Struggles for the Super Kings
The chase began on a shaky note for CSK, as MI’s Deepak Chahar struck early, dismissing Rahul Tripathi for just 2 runs in the second over. Chahar bowled a well-directed bouncer that Tripathi couldn’t handle, resulting in a catch by the keeper. This early breakthrough set the tone for MI's bowling attack.
Gaikwad Steadies the Ship
Despite the early setback, Ruturaj Gaikwad took charge and started building the innings. He was joined by Rachin Ravindra and together they steadied the ship. Gaikwad played a mix of defensive shots and aggressive strokes, reaching his fastest fifty in the IPL from just 22 balls. He showcased impeccable timing with some beautiful boundaries and a couple of sixes.
- Gaikwad hit an impressive six over deep cover off Will Jacks in the seventh over.
- Reached his fifty with a single to square leg, marking his 19th fifty in the IPL.
Young Gun Vignesh Puthur Shines
Vignesh Puthur, making his debut, left a lasting impression with key breakthroughs. He dismissed the well-set Ruturaj Gaikwad who was looking dangerous at 53 runs.
- Got Gaikwad with a fuller delivery that the batsman misjudged, resulting in a catch at long off.
- Followed up with the wicket of Shivam Dube, who attempted a big hit but was caught at long on.
MI’s Bowlers Keep Chipping In
The MI bowlers, especially Will Jacks and Vignesh Puthur, kept things tight and picked up wickets at regular intervals. Each time CSK seemed to build a partnership, MI’s bowlers came back strongly.
- Will Jacks bowled Sam Curran for 4 runs with a beautiful delivery that uprooted the off-stump.
- Vignesh Puthur claimed his third wicket of the night, dismissing Deepak Hooda who fell for a slog sweep caught at deep backward square leg.
Pressure Mounts on CSK
With CSK needing 40 runs off 35 balls, the match was on a knife's edge. Rachin Ravindra and Ravindra Jadeja were at the crease, and the pressure was palpable. Despite their efforts, MI maintained a tight field and accurate deliveries, further tightening the noose around CSK.
- Ravindra got an inside edge off Rachin’s bat that narrowly missed the stumps.
- Suryakumar Yadav took a review for an LBW appeal against Jadeja, which was turned down, the ball missing leg stump by a whisker.
Final Overs Drama and Last Stand
The final few overs saw both drama and tension. Ravindra Jadeja and Rachin Ravindra tried to keep the scoreboard ticking, but MI’s bowlers were relentless.
- Jadeja paddled a full ball to deep fine leg, taking a single, showing nerves of steel.
- Rachin Ravindra managed to nudge an inside edge, handling the pace and keeping the chase alive.