Mumbai Indians (MI) will look to extend their recent winning streak as they gear up to face long-time rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 38 of the IPL 2025 season. The high-octane clash will take place at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and serves as the return leg between the two sides, with CSK having won their previous encounter during the opening weekend of the tournament.

Regarded as the biggest rivalry in IPL history by both fans and experts, the MI vs CSK face-off is always highly anticipated. Ahead of this marquee fixture, Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya added fuel to the excitement by making a bold remark about the passionate fan bases of both franchises. He admitted that during MI vs CSK games at Wankhede, it never truly feels like a home game for Mumbai due to the massive support MS Dhoni draws. Pandya noted that the stadium is often split in its allegiance, with Dhoni’s presence alone capable of shifting the atmosphere in CSK’s favor. The star India allrounder also added that what makes this rivalry even more special is the presence of one man—MS Dhoni. Despite Wankhede being the fortress of the Mumbai Indians, the stadium often turns into a sea of yellow when Dhoni walks out.

“When we play CSK, there is no MI there. CSK is going to be CSK there. But even when CSK comes here, half of the fans are CSK’s. It’s surreal. You’re in Mumbai, playing at your home ground, and yet when Mahi bhai walks in, the crowd erupts like it's his home game", MI skipper told Jatin Sapru in an exclusive interview.

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DHONI 🤝 HARDIK..!!!!

- Hardik Pandya talking about MI vs CSK rivalry and MS Dhoni's Craze even in Wankhede. ❤️pic.twitter.com/8rtsYfqL7E

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) April 20, 2025

 

Also read: Watch: Deepak Chahar’s Hilarious Reunion With MS Dhoni Goes Viral – Internet Can’t Stop Laughing

MS Dhoni has fans everywhere: Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya expressed that MS Dhoni enjoys immense admiration and respect across the country, regardless of the venue. He pointed out that Dhoni’s fan following isn’t limited to one team or region, as he draws massive support in every stadium he plays, including the Wankhede. Pandya highlighted the electrifying atmosphere Dhoni creates with his presence and noted that such energy is rare. He also emphasized that as long as icons like Dhoni remain active in the sport, the charm and excitement around cricket will continue to thrive, capturing the hearts of fans across generations and adding to the IPL’s enduring appeal.

"That’s the kind of love and respect he commands. It doesn’t matter which city or stadium—MS Dhoni has fans everywhere. The kind of frenzy he creates, especially at Wankhede, is unbelievable. And as long as legends like Dhoni are around, the magic—and madness—will continue", MI skipper Hardik Pandya concluded.