IPL CSK vs MI: Chennai Super Kings Win By 4 Wickets But Mumbai's 24-Year-Old Vignesh Puthur Steals Limelight

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) claimed a four-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians (MI) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on March 23, 2025, marking a triumphant return of the IPL's most celebrated rivalry to Chepauk. While Chennai walked away with the win, it was Mumbai's young spinner Vignesh Puthur who delivered a standout performance in his debut match.

Chennai's Successful Chase

Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chennai successfully chased down Mumbai's target of 155 runs, with Rachin Ravindra emerging as the hero of the match. Ravindra, who scored a composed fifty off 42 deliveries, sealed the victory with a spectacular shot despite losing his partner Ravindra Jadeja earlier due to a miscommunication between the two.

The chase wasn't without drama, as CSK needed 21 runs from the final 18 deliveries at one stage. When Sam Curran fell to Will Jacks, leaving Chennai five wickets down, Mumbai sensed an opportunity for a comeback. However, Chennai's batting depth proved decisive as they overcame the challenging situation to secure their first win of the 2025 IPL season.

Puthur's Remarkable Debut

Despite Mumbai's defeat, 23-year-old left-arm wrist spinner Vignesh Puthur from Malappuram, Kerala, made a memorable IPL debut. Signed for his base price of Rs. 30 lakh, Puthur claimed three crucial wickets that nearly turned the game in Mumbai's favor.

Puthur announced his arrival by dismissing CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad in his very first over, when Gaikwad hit a full delivery straight to Will Jacks. The young spinner continued his impressive spell by removing the dangerous Shivam Dube in his second over, with Tilak Varma completing the catch at long-on.

Deepak Hooda became Puthur's third victim when an attempted slog sweep found the fielder at deep square leg. His 3-wicket haul against one of the IPL's most established teams marked him as a talent to watch this season.

El Classico Returns

This encounter marked the revival of the iconic IPL rivalry at Chepauk after a brief hiatus. Mumbai, led by Suryakumar Yadav in the absence of Hardik Pandya, was looking to improve upon their disappointing last-place finish in the 2024 season.

Mumbai's innings featured a quick 28 from Deepak Chahar, helping them post a competitive total of 155, but it wasn't enough against a determined Chennai side.

For Chennai, the victory sets a positive tone for their 2025 IPL campaign, while Mumbai will take encouragement from Puthur's performance as they look to bounce back in their upcoming matches.