Watch: MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya’s tight hugs steal the spotlight ahead of CSK vs MI IPL 2025 encounter | Cricket News – The Times of India

NEW DELHI: In a second that melted hearts and transcended staff rivalries, Hardik Pandya and MS Dhoni shared a heat, heartfelt hug throughout a coaching session ahead of the blockbuster IPL 2025 conflict between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk.
As cameras zoomed in, the sight of the former India captain and the present T20I star embracing was greater than only a picture-op. In all, it was a gesture soaked in mutual respect, brotherhood, and years of shared cricketing historical past.
Dhoni, a legend whose calm management outlined an period, and Pandya, as soon as his protégé and now a pacesetter himself, stood in a quiet second of camaraderie earlier than the storm of “El Clasico” — the most celebrated rivalry in IPL historical past.
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Their paths have been vastly totally different however intently intertwined — from lifting trophies collectively for India to now captaining the two most profitable franchises in IPL historical past.
Even although Pandya won’t be enjoying the opening recreation on account of a one-match suspension, his presence at the venue and this gesture towards Dhoni despatched a powerful message: that past the fierce competitors, IPL continues to be a celebration of relationships constructed over time.
With CSK boasting a spin-heavy lineup and MI lacking key gamers like Jasprit Bumrah and suspended skipper Hardik Pandya, the house aspect begins as slight favourites.
MS Dhoni’s management stays central, whereas Suryakumar Yadav steps in as MI captain. CSK’s current dominance over MI add intrigue, and the match may also showcase the new ball-change rule.
Despite MI’s depleted squad, their explosive prime order units the stage for an exciting contest between two IPL powerhouses.