CSK targets victory with spin against depleted MI

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will rely on their strong spin attack as they take on the depleted Mumbai Indians (MI) in their IPL opener. The match will be held at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai, starting at 7:30 PM IST. CSK has a strong lineup, while MI is missing key players Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. CSK's spin bowling options have improved after the recent auction. They have added Ravichandran Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, Shreyas Gopal, and Deepak Hooda. They also have veteran Ravindra Jadeja. This strategy may give CSK an advantage, especially since they have won four of their last five matches against MI. Mumbai Indians will be without Bumrah, who is recovering from a back injury. His absence will weaken MI's bowling, especially in the crucial death overs. Hardik Pandya, the regular captain, is also unavailable due to a one-match ban. Suryakumar Yadav will lead MI in this match. CSK has a selection dilemma at the top of their batting order. Ruturaj Gaikwad is expected to open the innings, likely partnered by either Rachin Ravindra or Devon Conway. The middle order includes players like Rahul Tripathi and Shivam Dube. Despite their struggles last season, MI has a solid lineup this time. They have experienced players like Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar among their fast bowlers. The inclusion of Ryan Rickelton adds firepower to their batting. This opening match will also provide insights into how well teams adapt to the ball-change rule in the second innings. Both teams are looking to start their IPL campaigns on a strong note.