Chennai Super Kings (CSK) began their IPL 2025 season with a strong victory, defeating Mumbai Indians (MI) by 4 wickets on Sunday, March 23. The standout player for CSK was Noor Ahmad, who achieved his best performance in the IPL by taking 4 wickets. One of his notable dismissals was that of the stand-in MI captain Suryakumar Yadav, whom he outsmarted with a brilliant googly.
MS Dhoni played an important role in this wicket from behind the stumps, managing to dislodge the bails in just 0.12 seconds after catching the ball. Noor expressed his appreciation for having a legendary player like Dhoni supporting him during his bowling spell. He mentioned how Dhoni’s guidance reminded him of the interactions Dhoni used to have with players like Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav before the pandemic.
In his post-match comments, Noor said, “It feels special to play in the IPL. I’m happy for the team’s success and my contribution. I focused on bowling in the right areas, and getting Surya out was a big moment. MSD’s stumping was incredible. Having Mahi bhai behind the stumps gives me great support.”
CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad also had a fantastic day, both leading the team and scoring his fastest fifty in the IPL in just 22 balls while chasing a target of 156 runs. Gaikwad was thrilled with the win and expressed his enjoyment in batting at the No. 3 position.
“I’m glad we won, and while I wished we had been a bit sharper, that’s just how the game is. Moving to bat at three was what the team needed, giving us more balance. The spinners did an excellent job, and we were excited about having all three of them together at Chepauk. Khaleel brings experience, and Noor is an exciting talent, plus Ash is a great addition too,” he stated.
Gaikwad also shared insights about Dhoni, noting that the wicketkeeper seems to be in better shape this year and revealing that Dhoni does not practice his stumping skills in the nets.
“He’s still the same Mahi but even fitter this year. He doesn’t practice his keeping at all,” Gaikwad concluded after the match.
