MI vs CSK 2025: Not Rohit, Not Surya — Hardik Pandya Reveals the Real Match Winner After Dominant Win

Mumbai In a spectacular display of batting and bowling, Mumbai Indians (MI) crushed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 9 wickets at the Wankhede Stadium, chasing down 176 in just 15.4 overs. While Rohit Sharma’s unbeaten 76 and Suryakumar Yadav’s 68 off 37 balls* grabbed headlines, it was MI captain Hardik Pandya’s post-match revelation that truly caught everyone’s attention.

Hardik Pandya Names the Unsung Hero

Following MI’s third straight win in IPL 2025, Hardik Pandya spoke at the presentation ceremony:

“When Rohit and SKY bat like that, it looks magical. But for me, the real match winner was our bowling unit. They set the tone.”

Hardik praised the bowling attack for restricting CSK to 176 despite half-centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube. Pandya’s tactical bowling changes and field placements were spot on, keeping pressure on CSK throughout the innings.

“It’s not always about big scores. Bowlers win you matches too. Today, our pacers and spinners executed everything we planned. Credit to them,” he added.

Match Highlights: MI vs CSK IPL 2025

• CSK Innings:

  • Ravindra Jadeja: 54 (32)

  • Shivam Dube: 51 (29)

  • Total: 176/5 (20 overs)

• MI Innings:

  • Rohit Sharma: 76* (45), 6 sixes, 4 fours

  • Suryakumar Yadav: 68* (37)

  • Chased 176 in 15.4 overs

Rohit Sharma’s Return to Form

After managing just 82 runs in 6 innings, Rohit’s explosive 76 off 45* was a powerful comeback. He tied the season’s record for most sixes in an innings (6) and struck at a strike rate of 168. Fans at Wankhede erupted as he anchored MI’s chase alongside SKY.

His innings also marked:

• First fifty of IPL 2025

• First unbeaten knock in a chase since IPL 2019

• Back-to-back wins for MI after a shaky season start

What This Win Means for MI

With this hat-trick of wins, Mumbai Indians now climb significantly up the IPL 2025 points table, gaining momentum at the perfect time. The team looks balanced, with batting firepower, bowling control, and a captain backing every player.

Looking Ahead

Mumbai Indians next face Rajasthan Royals in a top-table clash. If Rohit and SKY continue this form and bowlers keep executing Hardik’s plans, MI could be serious title contenders again.