IPL 2020: Points to ponder as CSK beat MI in Match 1

Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) played the first match for IPL 2020 at Abu Dhabi. The match brought us many exciting moments, some of which are highlighted here.

The best rivalry, Mumbai-Chennai, did put up a spectacular show in the opening match of IPL 2020. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won the match, unlike their previous season final match.

Let’s just talk about the major points that popped up during the match:

First ball to go for a boundary
It is hard to imagine the very first ball of the season going for a four and that too after months of lockdown. However, Rohit Sharma hit a beautiful four through the covers to the swing ball of Deepak Chahar.

Saurabh Tiwary hitting the first six of IPL 2020
Even in the rarest of the dreams would this thing hit the mind. But then, that was the reality of the match where Saurabh Tiwary played a lofted shot to clear the boundary.

Saurabh Tiwary hitting the first six of IPL 2020
Even in the rarest of the dreams would this thing hit the mind. But then, that was the reality of the match where Saurabh Tiwary played a lofted shot to clear the boundary.
 

MI spinners with locked wrists
Yet again, Mumbai Indians almost repeated their same mistake when the IPL was held in UAE in 2014. Lack of good spinners that was the need of the UAE pitches, was still missing this time.

Cool attitude brought MI some trouble
No balls, missed catches, and some misfields during the match brought some tense moments to the Mumbai squad. Maybe, a little vigilance could have turned tables around.

Turbulent CSK start
Shane Watson and Vijay struggled giving CSK the thrust that was needed. It could spell trouble for the side going forward.

Rayudu makes a perfect replacement for Raina
Smart batting as per the situation, followed by some powerful hitting, gives the team some confidence. He nearly did what Raina usually brings to the CSK squad. Besides, Rayudu also became the first player to score a half century in IPL 2020.

Fantastic Faf
The Proteas player, Faf du Plessis, contributed to the game in all aspects. He amazed everyone with the two back to back catches at the boundary. Also, he did some exemplary batting, proving that age is just a number.
 

Sam Curran coming out as a finisher
Upon the fall of Jadeja’s wicket came the debutant Sam Curran, who brought the CSK win more closer. He performed terrifically, hitting 18 runs off just six balls, as fans would have certainly been in awe.

Ngidi paid off
Lungi Ngidi, CSK’s speedster, proved his worth by striking three MI all-rounders, who could have taken the MI score up.