The IPL 2025 weekend smashed all the viewership records and gave us an idea of how much each and every individual loves the tournament.

Viwership Details:

• 25.3 Crore watched on Star Sports.
• 137 Crore watch on JioHotstar, a clear indicator of the growing trend of online watching.
• Total 5000 Crore minutes were spent by fans watching the matches, an indication of how much is being followed.

One of the major highlights of the weekend was Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Mumbai Indians (MI) on March 23, 2025.The game was awaited with great anticipation due to the rivalry between the teams as well as between the two star players. The result was gripping, and it was also one of the season's most-watched games.

ALSO SEE: Kuldeep Yadav’s fun take: Indian cricketers as footballing icons

The weekend was not merely about the numbers alone; it also witnessed wonderfull performances by players such as the likes of MS Dhoni (CSK) and Rohit Sharma (MI). The game was filled with plenty of thrill and excitement for the audience.

Record-breaking viewer ratings show the manner in which IPL just seems to grow and grow each year. The opening weekend alone is proof that the tournament is a humongous component of world and Indian cricket culture. With even more nail-biting games to look forward to, the fans hardly have the patience to find out how the season turns out. The competition level will be stepped up with each round that passes, and the audience will be stuck to the TV sets. IPL 2025 will definitely be one of the best seasons so far.

A controversial video from the lethargic match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) has gone viral, with fans accusing players from CSK of possible ball tampering. In the video, Ruturaj Gaikwad appears to be manipulating the ball while Khaleel Ahmed makes an attempt to conceal it. It didn't take long for this video clip to spread across Twitter, with many users suggesting that foul play might have been involved and some even calling for an inquiry.

Pleural phase further on in the match, and many fans and commentators alike began to notice the peculiar activities of the two players. Despite no formal contracts from either the relevant IPL teams or CSK’s social media, the rest of the world was flooded with opinions, memes, and even aggressive arguments regarding the purported manipulation.

CSK vs. MI: IPL MATCH NO 3

Viral Video Sparks Ball-Tampering:-

Ball Tempering 👀👀.

What were they hiding ??#CSKvsMIpic.twitter.com/E2MLMvcdIM

— RCB Xtra. (@Rcb_Xtra) March 24, 2025

ALSO READ:-Hardik Pandya’s emotional birthday post for brother Krunal Pandya wins hearts

CSK fans came to the defense of their players, stating that it was an unremarkable and harmless incident that shouldn't have hit a level of global chaos, but even MI fans who are deemed neutral want answers, and the demand for a proper investigation only continues to grow. The balance of power lies with the cricketing bodies, who now face enormous pressure to sift through the footage to check for tampering and provide answers to these allegations.

After a very surprising turnout of events, the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season is currently at its peak with the most windy viewership trends. The match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has attracted more viewership than the epic Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs. Mumbai Indians (MI) rivalry, thus being a real "El Clasico" of the IPL.

According to a live broadcast on platforms including JioHotsar and social media, the KKR vs. RCB match on March 22, 2025, was the platform for an RCB victory by 7 wickets, where it hit over 41.7 crore views. The media also confirms that even on the most tweeted of days, the viewership peaks at 42 crore. In opposition to this, the high-profile match CSK vs. MI match, a staple of the schedule that was once a fan favorite because of the star power chests of players such as MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, saw 30 crore views. CSK won the match by 4 runs, but maybe the fall in the numbers reflects the absence of the regular excitement.

Viewership in IPL 2025

• RCB vs KKR viewership - 41.7 CR
• CSK vs MI viewership - 30.8 CR

Ithula vera Riyal Ipl ahaan 😅 pic.twitter.com/0c4XW8QVvw

— ပ𑂞ఎ𑂞♡™ (@Sribala111) March 24, 2025

Also Read: Malti Chahar’s Hilarious Instagram Story Sparks Laughter After CSK vs. MI Clash

This trend might be brought about by different reasons. KKR and RCB are two teams that have a large number of fans, with RCB often having the most devoted ones who can ride behind Virat Kohli, the one who continues to hold the audiences glued to his fanatical performances.

On the other hand, KKR has been a steady performer in recent seasons, and this feature has improved their image. CSK and MI, though they may have the strongest rivalry, might actually be getting watcher fatigue, or some of their key players absence would have made the matches dull.

Also Read: Watch:David Warner Dances with Ketika Sharma at Robin Hood Event

Views on the social media platform were split, as there were some fans who were sad over the season's opening matches being not hyped, while others were enthusiastic about KKR vs RCB's powerful performance. 

After MI’s clash with CSK, Malti shared a meme on her Instagram story that instantly went viral. The iconic "Baahubali-Kattappa" betrayal scene, a signio that characterized the change of situation when Deepak, who was a top player in CSK, joined the other side, thus being on the team opposite to the one he used to play. the meme was shared by Malti Chahar, who is the sister of Deepak Chahar. 

Malti Chahar's Instagram story. pic.twitter.com/1bfxj4kcU4

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 24, 2025

Also Read: DC vs LSG: Delhi Capitals Star Set to Miss IPL 2025 Season Opener

The meme was derived from a certain line of the movie which the audience of the post quickly identified. That line, to them, was humorous as it was a different view of Deepak moving from CSK to MI and, battle against his fellow team-mates. It was a crowd-pleaser with some likening it to a scene where Kattappa betrays Baahubali emotionally.

The meme went viral over the websites where the fans re-shared the meme for more wisdom and also they posted their own updated versions. Some denounced it as the "ultimate betrayal," but others were more accepting of the jovial interaction that makes IPL even more entertaining. With the 2025 season bringing unforeseen plot twists, Malti Chahar’s humorous review confirmed once again that cricket is not just about the game, it’s also about the feelings, nostalgia, and fun.

Singer and music composer Anirudh Ravichander performed an exhilarating live performance before the match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at Chepauk Stadium, and the stage was just right for the rest of the night.

Being an ardent CSK and MS Dhoni follower, Anirudh performed his hit numbers such as Hukum, Badass, Arabic Kuthu, and Aaluma Doluma. The crowd was on their feet, clapping, dancing, and singing in unison with each beat.

One of the evening's highlights was Hukum being performed by Anirudh, with the whole stadium singing along. He also rocked the stage with Badass from the movie Leo, building up the tension before the main match.

Anirudh Performing Aaluma Doluma while Dhoni gives a cameo 😂🔥 #WhistlePodu

pic.twitter.com/Ssu6ydhvn4

— CSK Fans Army™ (@CSKFansArmy) March 23, 2025

Anirudh Live Performance of Hukum at Chepauk 💛 pic.twitter.com/Faj5ehkVzh

— 🎰 (@StanMSD) March 23, 2025

we were robbed so bad😭#Anirudh #Hukum #IPL2025 https://t.co/MuQxx7GiPq pic.twitter.com/rA1rEDDhmj

— Λ★ (@AbijithT7) March 23, 2025

ALSO SEE: Watch: Vintage Dhoni Moment as He Enters to Finish Off MI at Chepauk

A special moment came when Dhoni briefly appeared during Aaluma Doluma, eliciting loud applause from the crowd. Anirudh had also practiced the previous day at the stadium to prepare for the big match.

His performance infused additional energy into an already thrilling matchday, and it was a night to remember for CSK fans in Chennai.

Although being one of the most prosperous IPL teams, the Mumbai Indians have not been successful in their first match for more than a decade. Mumbai Indians lost their opening match one after another each of these years, which led to a slow start in the tournament. Last season proved to be another failed attempt when MI lost to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025, the same trend persisted.

MI’s Opening Match Defeats (2013–2025):-

Here’s a look at MI’s first-match losses over the years:

• 2013 – Lost to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by 2 runs
• 2014 – Lost to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 41 runs.
• 2015 – Lost to KKR by 7 wickets.
• 2016 – Lost to Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) by 9 wickets.
• 2017 – Lost to RPS by 7 wickets.
• 2018 – Lost to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 1 wicket.
• 2019 – Lost to Delhi Capitals (DC) by 37 runs.
• 2020 – Lost to CSK by 5 wickets.
• 2021 – Lost to RCB by 2 wickets.
• 2022 – Lost to DC by 4 wickets.
• 2023 – Lost to RCB by 8 wickets.
• 2024 – Lost to Gujarat Titans (GT) by 6 runs.
• 2025 – Lost to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 5 wickets.

Mumbai Indians have lost their opening game in,

2008
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025 😳 pic.twitter.com/fQ7mOTjuzk

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 23, 2025

ALSO READ:-Watch: MS dhoni hit Deepak Chahar by bat

Impact of the Losing Streak:-

Despite the defeats, MI found their way and performed well in later rounds. In 2023, they made it to the playoffs, while in 2024, they were the last in the ranking. MI is willing to make an effort to show a good performance in the following years as IPL 2025 is close to starting.

The Chepauk stadium was charged with excitement and anticipation as MS Dhoni took the field to bat for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a much-anticipated match against Mumbai Indians (MI). CSK needed 4 runs to win off 8 balls, and the crowd stood up on their feet as their icon took the field.

Dhoni walked in when Ravindra Jadeja was run out, and it was a dramatic moment. But the moment Dhoni walked onto the field, the crowd went into a frenzy of loud cheers. Everyone was chanting his name, waving CSK flags, and taking the moment on their mobile phones. The entire stadium came alive.

Although it was only 4 runs, the crowd wanted to see Dhoni finish the match in his usual fashion. A little earlier during the game, Dhoni already proved that he still has it with an incredibly fast stumping to send Suryakumar Yadav back in the 11th over. It was a moment that reminded all of us why Dhoni is still one of the wisest players on the field.

You know the crowd hits peak volume when this gentleman walks in! 😮‍💨🫰🏻

Dear #MSDhoni, you were truly missed. 💛#IPLonJioStar 👉 #CSKvMI, LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, 2 & 3 & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/2dVJ5TKAnc

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 23, 2025

ALSO SEE: Is IPL 2025 MS Dhoni's Last Season? R Ashwin Reacts 

Dhoni is famous for remaining composed under pressure and chasing games when it counts the most. For all fans, merely watching him walk out to bat is sufficient to infuse hope and optimism.

As he took his guard and glanced around the ground, one thing was certain the love for Dhoni is as intense as ever.

Everyone's eyes were now on him, hoping he would again complete the match in his characteristic composed manner.

In the third match of IPL 2025, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won against Mumbai Indians (MI) by four wickets at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. MI scored 156 runs, with Tilak Varma scoring 31 runs and Deepak Chahar class Innings. CSK chased the target comfortably, Rachin Ravindra’s unbeaten 65 off 45 balls and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s 33 runs. With this loss, MI continued their trend of losing their first match of the season since 2012.

IPL 2025 – Match 3 Highlights (CSK vs MI)

MI Innings(155-9)in 20 overs

Tilak Varma- 31(25)

Deepak Chahar- 28(15)

Vignesh Puthur (4-32-3)

CSK Innings(158-6) in 19.1 overs

Ruturaj Gaikwad- 53(26)

Rachin Ravindra- 65(45)*

Noor Ahmad (4-18-4)

ALSO READ: Watch: MS dhoni hit Deepak Chahar by bat

Twitter reactions after CSK win 3rd of IPL 2025

Csk win 1st match in 2025 ipl season
MI to manjals:) 💥🤸‍♂️😌😝 pic.twitter.com/AERl1YQoOL

— Rangarajinism 🦅 (@Rangarajinism01) March 23, 2025

CSK won the match against MI

Congratulations yellow army 💛

It hurts, but not surprising. MI losing the first match since 2013 it’s tradition now 😕 pic.twitter.com/GIfI60eJ3e

— 𝕏 (@asdeep_trends) March 23, 2025

Fire & Fury - #WhistlePodu 💛💥

CSK WON THE MATCH
---- AGAINST MI#TATAIPL2025 #IPL2025 #CSKvsMI #CSKvMI #Dhoni pic.twitter.com/wdEffrUN8Z

— IndiaGlitz Telugu™ (@igtelugu) March 23, 2025

Hi @mipaltan
Sealed 1st victory of ipl25💥
Last a thala dharisanam vera 💥💥#CSKvMI #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/icdH2ztyx9

— mankatha_mahi_6007 (@maskdboy6007) March 23, 2025

#MI Fans Today Template 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Mapla eppavum motha match aha Saamy ku Vitruvan... 😂😂😂😂#TATAIPL2025 #TATAIPL #CSKvsMI #MSDhoni #RohitSharma #CSK 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/nLnjcG8gjn

— Sathis J (@SathishVanan21) March 23, 2025

CSK vs MI in the last 7 matches:

- CSK Won
- CSK Won
- MI Won
- CSK Won
- CSK Won
- CSK Won
- CSK Won

Forever our dogs @mipaltan pic.twitter.com/8eAgsg4tjM

— ` (@Itz_Bl3ze) March 23, 2025

Agression onu katran paru! 😤#CSKvsMI #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/Qx0UOAIEat

— Video Memes (@VideoMemes_VM) March 23, 2025

#CSK Comfortably Wins Their first Match of the Season Against #MI ..🔥✅ #CSKvsMI pic.twitter.com/oAJxFXCKwf

— Laxmi Kanth (@iammoviebuff007) March 23, 2025

Instant Reaction
CSK beat MI by 4 wickets. Winning start - lets go on.#whistlepodu pic.twitter.com/KH3nj4jHaV

— Prasanna Balakrishnan (@PrasannaBalakr2) March 23, 2025

>CSK won the match,
>Thala got the chance to bat "

*CSK fans mood rn#CSKvsMI pic.twitter.com/iWOiyDNU5x

— देव 🔆 (@refocus21) March 23, 2025

Once again CSK Owned Mi🦁 🔥

First victory of this Season💥#CSKvMI #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/9puOK6GLk0

— M.D⚡ (@Thalapathy_md) March 23, 2025

​In a light-hearted moment during the IPL 2025 match between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI), CSK captain MS Dhoni playfully swung his bat at teammate Deepak Chahar after the match concluded, sharing a smile that delighted fans.

Mahi maar raha hai 🤣

MS Dhoni hitting Deepak Chahar with bat. pic.twitter.com/ThJAxvtfa9

— Jeet (@JeetN25) March 23, 2025

ALSO READ:-Noor Ahmed Stuns Mumbai with Record-Breaking Spell

A Fun Moment Between Teammates:-

The match came to an end and Dhoni and Chahar were seen appreciating each other with laughter. During their parting ways, Dhoni playfully swung his bat toward Chahar, forcing everyone in the vicinity to giggle. This was the moment in which the molded strong bond between the CSK players was recognized.

Dhoni stood there waiting for Chahar and did this😂 😂 pic.twitter.com/Evsyh8KeGY

— 🎰 (@StanMSD) March 23, 2025

ALSO READ:-Watch: Vintage Dhoni Moment as He Enters to Finish Off MI at Chepauk

Fans Loved Dhoni’s Gesture:-

CSK supporters loved the lighthearted exchange and praised Dhoni’s cool and fun-loving character. Many remembered the same kind of moment as IPL 2023's when Dhoni was playfully trying to hit Chahar with the bat before the game. Such moments illustrate the relaxed and friendly atmosphere within the CSK squad.

In the IPL 2025 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at MA Chidambaram Stadium, young spinner Noor Ahmad delivered a sensational performance. His 4-over spell, taking 4 wickets for just 18 runs, is now the best bowling figure by a CSK spinner against MI in IPL history.

Noor Ahmad’s Amazing Spell:-

Noor Ahmad put in some truly outstanding performances throughout the tournament and this included the MI innings also. Noor was quite economical with his bowling let alone maintain an accurate line and length. His variations kept MI's batters on their toes and 4-18 in 4 overs was just what they needed to change the course of the clash. 

🚨 NOOR MADE HISTORY AT CHEPAUK 🚨

- Noor Ahmed now has the Best bowling figure for CSK against Mumbai Indians in IPL History. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/FLM3fsRvUg

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) March 23, 2025

ALSO READ:-MS Dhoni’s Lightning-Fast Stumping Stuns Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025

Key Wickets and Match Impact:-

• Suryakumar Yadav – Beaten by a sharp delivery, stumped by MS Dhoni.
• Tilak Varma – Trapped LBW by Noor’s well-disguised googly.
• Two more crucial wickets that ensured MI couldn’t recover.

Countering the impact realized by Noor Ahmad’s game-turning spell ensured CSK sustaining control of the battle whilst relinquishing the streak to Ahmad becoming an emerging star of IPL 2025.