Mumbai Indians (MI) set a target of 156 runs for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 3 of IPL 2025 after posting 155/9 in their 20 overs. CSK won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that proved fruitful as their bowlers kept Mumbai’s batting lineup under pressure. Noor Ahmad was the star performer with the ball, picking up four wickets for just 18 runs in his four-over spell.
Mumbai’s Struggles with the Bat
Mumbai Indians had a tough start as their skipper Rohit Sharma was dismissed for a duck by Khaleel Ahmed in the very first over. Ryan Rickelton and Will Jacks tried to counter-attack but fell in quick succession, reducing MI to 36/3 inside the powerplay.
Suryakumar Yadav (29 off 26) and Tilak Varma (31 off 25) provided some stability in the middle overs, but Noor Ahmad’s spin magic derailed their efforts. The left-arm wrist-spinner removed both set batters, stumping Suryakumar and trapping Varma LBW.
Mumbai’s lower order tried to add crucial runs, with Deepak Chahar scoring a quick 28 off 15 balls, including two sixes. However, regular wickets kept MI from building any significant partnerships.
CSK’s Bowling Brilliance
Noor Ahmad was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with 4/18 in his four overs. Khaleel Ahmed also impressed, taking 3/29, including the key wickets of Rohit Sharma and Trent Boult. Nathan Ellis chipped in with a wicket, while Ravichandran Ashwin bowled economically, conceding just 31 runs in his four overs.
What’s Next?
Chennai Super Kings now need 156 runs to win, and they will rely on their experienced batting lineup, featuring Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, and MS Dhoni, to chase the target. Mumbai Indians will look to their bowlers, especially Trent Boult and Mitchell Santner, to defend the total.
With the match finely poised, an exciting second innings awaits.
