IPL 2020: Here’s what MI players said on ‘El Clasico’ against CSK

Dubai: Mumbai Indians’ (MI) captain Rohit Sharma, all-rounders Hardik and Krunal Pandya, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and head coach Mahela Jayawardene have shared their thoughts about their IPL 2020 opening game against the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings. The contest will be played in Abu Dhabi today (September 19) from 7.30 PM (IST). MI are the defending champions, having claimed the trophy in IPL 2019 final with a thrilling one-run win over CSK.

MI captain Rohit Sharma said in a video posted on the team’s official Twitter handle, “The El Clasico of IPL. Playing against CSK is always fun, we enjoy that battle. But when we play the game it is just another opposition for us and that is how we want to move forward and think about the opposition, rather not get overawed by any opposition.”

All-rounder Hardik Pandya: “It is the rivalry which has always been there. It has become a game which people look forward to. It is one of the two franchises that are most loved by the fans and that is how it becomes special. I do not know, we all will get our A-game out when we are playing against CSK and I wish we always do that.”

Paceman Jasprit Bumrah: “Because both teams are very well known and they always do well, so it's always an interesting match.”

Head coach Mahela Jayawardene: “To beat a team like this or compete against a team like this you really really have to lift your game and I think naturally all the boys do that. As a franchise it is something that we thrive on as well.”

All-rounder Krunal Pandya: “The vibe which it creates… Mumbai Indians versus Chennai Super Kings – as a player also you look forward to that.”