IPL 2024 Qualification Scenarios: How can Mumbai Indians qualify for playoffs after CSK's win over MI?

At the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai, it was time for the El-Clasico of the Indian Premier League as Chennai Super Kings took on the Mumbai Indians. A win was a must for both of these times as the sides looked to climb up the points table. Victory for the Mumbai Indians would have meant they might topple their arch rivals depending on the net run rate. Meanwhile, a win for the away side would help them get closer to the top two spots.

The defending champions were sent out to bat first after the hosts won the toss. Mumbai Indians had the upper hand after the first 10 overs as they removed the opposition openers cheaply. Then the middle-order surge came from skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube with a strong 90-run stand. MS Dhoni gave the innings finishing touches with a strong and unbeaten 20-run knock from just four deliveries. Chennai Super Kings posted a massive total of 206/4 from their 20 overs.

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In response, Mumbai Indians started off well with a strong opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan. They had a great stand of 70 runs before Matheesha Pathirana took the wicket of Ishan Kishan and impact player Suryakumar Yadav in the eighth over. Tilak Varma joined Rohit and they got together for a vital 60-run partnership. Following that the former departed after playing a great knock of 31 from 20 balls. 

Hardik Pandya, Tim David and Romario Shepherd came to the crease but were not able to muster much. Too many dot balls during the middle-overs also cost the side the run chase against their arch-rivals. In the end, Chennai Super Kings got their first away victory of the season as they won the game by 20 runs.

How can MI still make it to the Playoffs?

Mumbai Indians have now played four straight home games this season and would now be traveling to Chandigarh to face the out-of-form Punjab Kings. The match is set to be contested at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on Thursday, April 18, 2024. 

Both the sides are struggling and have just two wins from their first six games. Mumbai Indians would be hoping for a much better performance in their upcoming game which can help them climb up the points table.