As per emerging reports, the Champions League T20 (CLT20) could make a comeback in the following years. Talks are reportedly underway between the BCCI, ECB, and Cricket Australia (CA) to revive the dormant league. The league came into existence in 2009, and the inaugural edition was played in India. However, it all came to an end in 2014 with the last edition also being staged in India. 

The England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have particularly shown keen interest and is working on a plan to bring life to this now-defunct league. CLT20 comprised T20 franchise teams from regions spanning across South Asia, Oceania, Southern Africa, the Caribbean, and the UK. Popular IPL franchises like MI and CSK also took part in this league across six editions. 

See also: TNPL 2025: Golden opportunity for Gujarat Titans talent to redeem his luck

ECB's plan to revive CLT20

During a conversation with ESPNcricinfo, ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould unveiled ambitious plans to bring the league back to life. He is engaging in active discussions with representatives from BCCI, CA, and CSA (Cricket South Africa) to curate a league that exactly mirrors the now-defunct CLT20 but with a catch. What would be different this time is that the league would include male and female teams, thus giving it an inclusive outlook. The plan is in the early stage and is yet to take full shape, but the ECB CEO has assured that he is proactively working on it to make this plan turn into reality someday. 

"CLT20 was ahead of its time. We are looking to make it happen now. That is anticipated. There will undoubtedly be a World Club Championship for both men and women at some point. According to India Today, he stated, "That's the next logical step."

The ECB is exploring the options to revive Champions League T20.

ECB CEO said, "CLT20 was ahead of its time. We are looking to make it happen now". (Espncricinfo). pic.twitter.com/yjzMEdS2Lh

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 6, 2025

Why should CLT20 be revived?

CLT20 was decommissioned after the 2014 edition for several reasons. A decline in viewership and limited sponsorship deals, followed by a congested cricketing calendar, made it impossible for the stakeholders to continue the league smoothly. But in an era dictated by franchise cricket, the world deserves to see a league that represents the global values of the franchises.

Franchises from different corners of the world have the opportunity to come together under one roof and compete with each other to showcase their excellence on an international scale. Moreover, exposure to different venues also facilitates preparedness and greater adaptability, which the players so desperately need to thrive in modern-day cricket. While discussions are ongoing, no official announcements have been made regarding the tournament's revival. However, the renewed interest from major cricket boards indicates a positive outlook for the future of CLT20. 

Mumbai Indians are one of the most successful franchises in the history of the IPL. Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings share a combined 10 IPL titles, with five each, the most achieved by any IPL franchise. The five-time champions know what it takes to reach and conquer the top summit. Over the years, the Mumbai-based franchise has experienced a pattern of peaking just towards the business end of the tournament. 

But in this season, MI hit the ground running right from the onset and on the back of some consistent performances, were able to secure a position in the second Qualifier. The experience of Rohit and Hardik, two of MI's senior pros, and the X-factor of Bumrah gives the side an edge over PBKS to prevail in this upcoming do-or-die Qualifier. 

In this article, we will uncover three reasons why MI deserve to play the final against RCB on June 3. 

See also: Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians (PBKS vs MI): Qualifier 2, IPL 2025, Match Preview

Dominant Batting Performance

MI have some power hitters in their bank who can switch gears irrespective of the current state of the game. They have assembled one of the most explosive batting line-ups in IPL 2025, with a powerful mix of experience and aggression. The likes of Surya, Hardik, and Rohit, who can run away with the game once they start middling the ball. In the Eliminator against GT, MI batters showcased an unprecedented degree of resilience by posting a formidable total of 228/5. Significant contributions were made from Rohit, who slammed 81 runs off 50 balls, including 9 fours and 4 sixes, followed by additional quick-fire contributions from Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya.  Besides, Jonny Bairstow's late inclusion bolstered the MI squad. He had an impressive outing in the Eliminator clash, scoring 47 runs off 22 balls to help MI set the tone early doors. With in-form batters in their batting department, MI have the ability to mount towering totals and crush teams batting last.

Strategic Bowling Excellence

With Jasprit Bumrah in the ranks, MI have some potent weapons in the bowling arsenal. Bumrah's death bowling skills are second to none, and his ability to deliver under pressure has been a cornerstone of MI's bowling strategy. In a league that shows no mercy to the bowlers, Bumrah has maintained an astonishing low economy rate of 6.36 RPO. Bumrah's performance in the Eliminator was particularly noteworthy, with former cricketer AB de Villiers praising him as the ultimate game-changer. Furthermore, MI also have variety in their bowling attack. Santner is a crafty spinner and can operate with the new ball and also the old ball. Moreover, Hardik is a true match-winner for his side, be it with the bat or the ball. The flamboyant bowling all-rounder has an overall good reputation with the ball despite having a tendency to err on the higher side. 

Tactical Leadership and Momentum

Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, MI have demonstrated tactical brilliance and adaptability. Pandya's decision-making and on-field strategies have been pivotal in navigating challenging situations. Additionally, MI's recent form, including a significant win over the Gujarat Titans, has bolstered their confidence and momentum heading into Qualifier 2. 

With a balanced blend of explosive batting, strategic bowling, and astute leadership, MI have positioned themselves as strong contenders for the IPL 2025 title.

Gujarat Titans' loss to Chennai Super Kings on Sunday has completely opened the battle for a spot in the top 2 spots in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 points table. While the four teams - Gujarat Titans (GT), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Mumbai Indians (MI), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB))—have achieved their spots in the Playoffs, only two of them can earn the privilege of playing in Qualifier 1, where they have the extra chance to qualify for the final.

GT is currently at the top of the points table with 18 points, having played all their league matches. On the table, they are stalking with caution, with the loss against CSK the last memory; all they have to hope for are other results in their favor. PBKS and MI will be playing next, with RCB playing against Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, and the results of these two games will determine who takes the two top spots.

Qualifier 1 is hugely beneficial, as the winner progresses directly to the final and the losing team gets a second chance in Qualifier 2, whereas the third and fourth place teams get to play the Eliminator - that is, a knockout match that will see off the loser.

What each team needs to get a top-two finish:

Punjab Kings (17 points): A win against MI will push PBKS to 19 points and ensure a top-two finish. A loss means they go into the Eliminator.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (17 points): RCB must beat LSG to have a chance for a top-two finish. If they lose against LSG, their chances are slim at best, depending on net run rate.

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 67: Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings Full Match Highlights

Mumbai Indians (16 points): A win over PBKS gives MI 18 points—which may get them a top-two finish depending on the RCB result.

Gujarat Titans (18 points): GT needs PBKS and RCB to lose assuredly. If they do, GT finishes in the top two along with MI.

The league stage is nearing the end, and the battle for the top two has never been hotter or more discouraging, as each run scored is critical. The next two games determine the road to the IPL 2025 final.

Mumbai Indians have approached Sri Lanka's white-ball captain Charith Asalanka to sign for the team for the rest of the IPL 2025 season, it is learnt. The signing is a response to the franchise being hit by the unavailability of some of its key overseas players during the decisive playoff stage because of international commitments. South African cricketers Corbin Bosch and Ryan Rickelton, and England's Will Jacks, will likely sit out the playoffs if Mumbai Indians make it to the playoffs. With the resumption of IPL on May 17 after it was suspended for a week, MI is looking to bolster its team for the grueling fight ahead.

Asalanka, who is respected for his quality batting style and off-spin attack, is being viewed as Will Jacks' like-for-like replacement. The two batsmen both bat in the number three position and have the ability to open the batting when needed as well. Both of these added options are immensely valuable to the Mumbai lineup, given that captain Rohit Sharma captains the team.

Asalanka set to boost Mumbai Indians’ playoff push with key skills

Mumbai Indians are currently fourth in the points table with seven victories from twelve games. Their previous match before the suspension of the IPL was a defeat against the Gujarat Titans, so their remaining matches are important for playoff qualification. MI will have to win both of the next two matches to stay alive in the playoffs without depending on other outcomes.

ALSO SEE: WATCH: ICC releases promo for World Test Championship Final 2025

Despite talks between the Mumbai Indians and Asalanka reported to be taking place, there has been no public confirmation made by either party yet. The agreement could now be finalized, according to sources, with the IPL schedule pushed back to June 3 after previous disruptions, so a hectic and tense conclusion to the competition is a distinct possibility.

Asalanka's inclusion adds not just depth in batting but also a spin option to the well-balanced MI side. The Sri Lankan captain's expertise in white-ball cricket at the international level will be valuable in the pressure-cooker games to come. With the playoffs approaching, Mumbai Indians' decision to sign Charith Asalanka may be the turning point in their bid for a sixth IPL title. Fans will be keen to observe how this new addition affects the team's dynamics in the last part of the season.

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is to resume on May 17, 2025, when Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will play against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru, after a week of suspension following heightening tensions between India and Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended the tournament on 9 May due to air raid warnings during a Punjab Kings (PBKS) against Delhi Capitals (DC) game in Dharamsala as a precaution for player safety in light of geopolitical tensions. A May 10 announced ceasefire paved the way for the return of the league, but the new schedule is now in jeopardy with a number of overseas players set to miss the rest of the season because of international obligations such as the World Test Championship (WTC) final, bilateral series, and travel bans.

As the IPL resumes, the franchises are preparing for the loss of major overseas players, affecting their plans for the coming matches and playoffs, ending with the final on June 3, 2025. The loss of these players, due to commitments such as the WTC final between Australia and South Africa, England's ODI series against the West Indies, and Australia's tour of Sri Lanka, will challenge the depth of IPL franchises. Below is a breakdown of each team’s current standing, remaining matches, and the overseas players they’re likely to miss.

Gujarat Titans (GT): Standing at the 1st position on the table with 16 points from 11 games, GT now has 3 games remaining. England's ODIs against the West Indies and WTC preparation for South African players are expected to keep Jos Buttler, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, and Gerald Coetzee out.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): Sitting 2nd with 16 points from 11 matches, RCB has 3 matches remaining. Josh Hazlewood and Lockie Ferguson are likely to miss due to WTC final preparations, while Phil Salt, Reece Topley, and Liam Livingstone will be absent due to England’s ODI series against the West Indies.

Punjab Kings (PBKS): 3rd with 15 points from 11 games, PBKS has 3 games to go. Jonny Bairstow, Chris Woakes, and Ben Stokes are likely to be absent due to WTC preparation and travel restrictions resulting from the previous geopolitical tensions.

Mumbai Indians (MI): Sitting at 4th position with 14 points from 12 games, MI has 2 games remaining. Gerald Coetzee and Anrich Nortje are expected to miss as they prepare for the WTC final with South Africa.

Delhi Capitals (DC): 5th with 13 points after 11 matches, DC have 3 games remaining. Mitchell Starc and Lorcan Tucker will probably miss it due to preparations for the WTC and Australia's return from Sri Lanka, and Tucker's participation remains uncertain.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Standing at 6th position with 11 points from 12 games, KKR has 2 games remaining. Anrich Nortje will probably miss it because of WTC final preparations with South Africa.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): Standing at 8th position with 7 points from 11 games, SRH has 3 games remaining. Pat Cummins and Travis Head will probably miss it 55 because of WTC final preparations with Australia.

Also Read: Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma visit Vrindavan after Test retirement

Overseas Players Missing IPL 2025

The group stage of the ongoing IPL 2025 is nearing the end with the remaining 13 matches. The existence of Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad in the tournament intensified the playoff race between 7 other teams. From the stats it is already clear which teams are already knocked out from the brawl, but there are still lots of permutations and combinations left to decide the names of the possible top 4 teams. The strain of stats intensified the battle between the remaining seven teams of the 10-franchise league. 

Current points table scenario and possibilities:

1. Gujarat Titans (GT)

Current table leader of the team with 16 points in 11 games, lost only 3 and won 8 matches. +0.793 is their Net Run Rate (NRR). From this position, they are almost into the playoff round, but with a certain amount of twist. If they lose all of their remaining matches and the results of the other matches go against them, then GT can find themself outside the line of the top 4. 

2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

The team is in the second spot of the points table, only behind Gujarat Titans in terms of NRR. RCB, with 16 points in 11 games, has an NRR of +0.482. From this position, they are almost into the playoff round, but with a certain amount of twist. If they lose all of their remaining matches and the results of the other matches go against them, then GT can find themself outside the line of the top 4. 

Read More: PSL 2025: PES vs LAH Match 28 - A Head to Head breakdown

3. Punjab Kings (PBKS)

They are the third team in the ladder with 15 points after playing 11 matches. A rain-washed match parted them from a possible 1 more point. Like GT and RCB, PBKS has a 90% chance to secure a playoff spot but can also be disqualified if they lose all of their remaining matches and other match results prove not favorable. 

4. Mumbai Indians (MI)

In terms of the present scenario, Mumbai Indians is the 4th best possible team to book a playoff spot. But in cricket, things can happen beyond imagination. The team with 14 points in 12 games can be knocked out of the playground if they lose all of their remaining fixtures, and other match results can also harm the former champion franchise. Though their chances are high for qualification rather than disqualification. NRR can play a decisive role. MI Indians achieved a handsome net run rate of +1.156.

5. Delhi Capitals (DC)

It will be interesting to see which team goes to the next round as the holder of 4th position. Present stats suggest DC can have a tug-of-war with MI. Capitals now has 13 points after playing 11 games, one match less than Mumbai Indians. NRR can prove vital if Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians maintain a neck-to-neck battle. DC's NRR is currently standing at +0.362. 

6. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

With a very keen hope of Ray, the defending champion is still in the race with 11 points in 12 matches. Comparing the above 5 teams' points and the number of matches they have played, KKR is not among the favorites to go through. But the luck from the 'City of Joy' can shine if they win the remaining games, RCB and GT lose theirs, PBKS loses two, and DC and MI lose one each— if this happens, then Knight Riders can qualify for the next round. 

7. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

Currently at 7th spot but slightly in a better position, as LSG has played a game less in comparison to KKR. While KKR at 6th played 12 matches, LSG has played 11 and has 10 points. With a very thin chance, LSG can still manage to get a place in the top half of the table if they win the remainder of their games, RCB and GT lose all of their upcoming games, MI loses one, and either PBKS also loses all their games or DC wins no more than one. 

In a recent online-circulating interview clip, ex-Indian cricketer Suresh Raina was asked a very interesting question  if he had to choose one batting partner between Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who would it be? Both are contemporary greats, and Raina has shared the dressing room and the crease with both of them on many occasions. Of course, everyone expected the choice to be a tough one. But Raina replied promptly and his choice surprised most fans.

In contrast to expectations that he would opt for Kohli, who is known for his aggression and consistency, Raina chose Rohit Sharma as his choice batting partner.

I always had a wonderful rhythm with Rohit," Raina told the interview. "There is tranquility when we bat together. We know each other without words.

ALSO SEE:Virat Kohli likes Anveet Kaur hot photos on Anushka’s birthday – fans shocked

Raina chooses Rohit, says they understand each other better while batting

Watch the video:

Suresh Raina 🎙️- I will prefer playing for MI then RCB bcz i want to bat with Rohit in wankhede.

Bodied Chokli and his fans who hypes his bond with Kohli like some Jai-Viru 😭 pic.twitter.com/RBFHR3D7E3

— ` (@V1shu45) May 2, 2025

This decision forthwith created a buzz throughout social media, with fans going down nostalgia lane about Raina and Rohit's fruitful combinations, both in global cricket and the IPL. Their on-field camaraderie, especially during stressful moments, has been hailed time and time again for its equilibrium and calmness.

Raina’s selection wasn't a slight against Virat Kohli. In fact, he went on to praise Kohli for his relentless intensity and unmatched hunger for runs, calling him “a true legend” and “a fighter.” However, Raina emphasized that comfort at the crease often stems from non-verbal understanding and shared temperament, which he said he finds more naturally with Rohit.

Raina's reaction video clip soon turned viral, attracting diverse fan reactions. Some were shocked, while others cheered his candid opinion and travelled down the memory lane, reminiscing about Raina-Rohit classics.

In the end, Raina's response brings to the fore that batting partnerships in successful runs are not just about talent  they live on timing, trust between partners, and an intuitive understanding among team-mates.

Suryakumar Yadav has disclosed his experiences with nerves prior to his first match as a Mumbai Indian player in the 2012 IPL season. With the right-hander ready to discuss MI’s important clash with the Rajasthan Royals, he has recounted memorable moments from over a decade ago.

So much so that he could not sleep; for Surya, the night prior to his debut was one filled with excitement. “I went to bed around 4 or 5 in the morning.” “Playing for a franchise brings a different kind of buzz. At that moment, stepping out for warmups caused stress, but once I was on the field for warmups, I couldn’t stop sweating, and it felt amazing.”

But everything fell apart at his debut match against Pune Warriors India (PWI) in 2012. Surya suffered an unfortunate four-ball duck from Marlon Samuels and after this was not selected for the team until the following season, 2013. After this he was traded to KKR in 2014, where he played a pivotal role in their title-winning campaign.

Also read: RR vs MI : Match 50 Weather and Pitch report IPL 2025

Surya - A Pillar for MI and a Key Player in IPL 2025

Suryakumar, the franchise's cornerstone as of 2018, made his return to MI in 2018. He guided MI to titles in 2019 and 2020, maintaining his performance through the years.

Suryakumar Yadav has been in top form this year! 🔥

Ten back-to-back 2⃣5⃣+ scores in IPL 2025! 📊#IPL2025 #SuryakumarYadav #MIvLSG pic.twitter.com/TpMOfL85Ub

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) April 27, 2025

He currently plays IPL 2025 and proves his worth with the bat yet again. Surya currently resides third in the Orange Cap race, having scored 427 runs in 10 matches, averaging 61, with a strike rate near 170. Surya's consistency and forming the scoring of at least 25 in every match-up to now have ensured MI's recovery after a rough start to the season, losing 4/5 games in a row and winning 5 straight, leading them to 3rd on the points table.

Suryakumar Yadav is set in the spotlight as Surya heads out with his team in the much zealous game against Rajasthan Royals set to play on Jaipur turf tonight.

The match between the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the Mumbai Indians is set to take place on May 01, 2025, at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. This fixture promises an intense battle between two power-packed teams as IPL 2025 enters a crucial phase.

Match Details:

• Date: May 01, 2025
• Time: 07:30 PM IST
• Venue: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
• Win % Batting First: 46%
• Win % Bowling First: 54%

Also read: 'They intentionally didn’t buy good players'— Harbhajan Singh's serious allegations over CSK management

Weather and Pitch Conditions:

Weather:

• The weather in Jaipur is expected to be warm and dry, with clear skies throughout the match duration.
• Humidity: Around 30%, offering comfortable playing conditions for the teams.
• Rain: No rain is forecast, ensuring a full 40-over game without interruptions.

Pitch:

• The Sawai Mansingh Stadium surface is typically known for being slow and low, especially in the second half.
• In the initial overs, pacers may extract some movement, but it becomes more spin-friendly as the game progresses.
• Batters will have to be cautious while accelerating, especially in the middle overs, due to the dry and worn nature of the pitch.
• Stroke-making is possible early in the innings, but bowlers will dominate in the second half.

Average Score Batting First (Last Season): 157
Average Score Batting Second (Last Season): 149
Wins Batting First in Last Five Games: 2
Wins Bowling First in Last Five Games: 3

Also read: LAH vs QUE PSL 2025 Match Live streaming: Where & How to watch on TV

 Venue Records: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

• Highest Team Total: 217/4 by Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad
• Lowest Team Total: 92 all out by Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals
• Average First Innings Score: Around 155 runs

Mumbai Indians (MI) have confirmed that talented left-arm wristspinner Vignesh Puthur has been ruled out of the rest of IPL 2025 after suffering bone stress reactions in both his shins. In his stead, the franchise has signed uncapped legspinner Raghu Sharma, who makes his first foray into the Indian Premier League.

Puthur, who made an impressive debut earlier this season, caught attention with a three-wicket haul against Chennai Super Kings. In his five matches for MI, he picked up six wickets with an economy rate of 9.08. Despite the setback, the franchise confirmed that Puthur will stay on with the squad to continue his rehabilitation under the supervision of the Mumbai Indians’ medical and strength & conditioning team.

"Vignesh will continue to be with the team to focus on his recovery and rehabilitation," MI stated. The 23-year-old, son of an auto-rickshaw driver, was one of MI’s standout rookie stories this season and quickly became a fan favorite.

ALSO SEE:'Used to take injections and play'— RCB star reveals his tough days fighting against medical issues

Sharma Joins Mumbai Indians Squad Ahead of Crucial Matches

Taking his place in the squad is 32-year-old Raghu Sharma, a right-arm leg-break bowler from Jalandhar, Punjab. Sharma has previously represented Punjab and Puducherry in domestic cricket. Though this is his first official IPL stint, he has been part of the Mumbai Indians' net bowling group and joins the main squad at his base price of INR 30 lakh.

With solid domestic credentials, Sharma brings experience to the side. In 11 first-class matches, he has claimed 57 wickets at an average of 19.59, including best bowling figures of 7 for 56. In the List A format, he has 14 wickets from nine games, and in the T20 format, he has three wickets from as many appearances.

MI have turned their season around after a sluggish start, having now won five consecutive matches and climbing to third on the points table with 12 points from ten games. With Sharma coming in, the team will be hoping to maintain their winning momentum as they head toward the business end of the tournament.