MI vs CSK: Wankhede Stadium pitch report, head-to-head record & other key stats for today's IPL match

Chennai Super Kings’ slump may dull the glamour of this year’s IPL Clasico return match, but for Mumbai Indians, it’s an opportunity to adapt their tactics and extend their recent winning streak on Sunday. After reviving their campaign with back‑to‑back victories over Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Hardik Pandya’s side—currently seventh—must navigate a crowded mid‑table pack.

The Indians executed their game plan flawlessly on a challenging Wankhede Stadium surface, dismantling SRH’s aggressive batting with surgical precision. The pitch, unusually for Wankhede, offered both spin-friendly grip and extra pace off the seam, effectively neutralizing Hyderabad’s batsmen.

But such an approach against the spin-heavy CSK would not be the right way and has the potential to backfire. Noor Ahmad has thrived in CSK colours with 12 wickets in seven matches which includes his three wickets against MI earlier this season, while the five-time winners also have two seasoned exponents in Ravichandran Ashwin (5 wickets) and Ravindra Jadeja (4).

MI, however, would still have the upper hand given their current form despite having lost to CSK in their season-opener in Chepauk.

Rohit Sharma hasn't notched up a big score yet but his brisk start against SRH gave MI the impetus they needed. Tilak Varma has been on a roll and so has been Suryakumar Yadav, with Ryan Rickelton's contribution at the top and Will Jacks' all-round show giving MI the fuel for their win.

MI would be pleased with how their bowling department is finding its rhythm with Trent Boult causing a lot of trouble with his perfect execution of the yorkers in recent outings, and Jasprit Bumrah also finding his lengths in the contest against SRH.

Pandya has floated well through his roles as a bowler and batter but he will continue to rely on Naman Dhir for some aggressive batting in death overs.

Karn Sharma suffered a finger webbing split while fielding against SRH and given the lack of turnaround time between matches, he is an injury concern.

On their part, there are no signs yet that CSK have been able to end their troublesome run of four consecutive losses with a five-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants.

But MS Dhoni's return to the Wankhede - the venue for many battles between these teams - should spur the visiting side.

Dhoni was the difference between MI and CSK the last time these two teams clashed here in 2024, with his four-ball 20 with three sixes off Pandya.

Dhoni's return as full-time skipper for the remainder of the season and CSK finding "manoeuvrability" with their bowling line-up was one positive sign for the old warhorse, who faces the task of reviving their disappointing campaign, contribute with the bat in death overs, and manage his knee injury amid all this.

CSK have added former MI player Dewald Brevis but it remains to be seen if the South African batter, as well as young Mumbai recruit in Ayush Mhatre, would slide into the playing XI immediately given their limited knowledge of conditions and pitch here.

MI vs CSK: Wankhede Pitch Report
The Wankhede surface hasn’t played true to its reputation this season. It has offered considerable assistance to spinners, especially under lights. Slower balls and cutters have gripped off the surface, frustrating batters looking for pace. Expect another low-bounce affair, where timing will be key and 160 might be a defendable score.

MI vs CSK: Head-to-Head
Total matches played: 38
MI won: 20
CSK won: 18

Mumbai Weather Report
A warm and humid evening is expected in Mumbai with temperatures hovering around 27–32°C. No rain is forecast. Dew could become a factor in the second innings, tilting the balance slightly in favour of teams chasing.