The IPL 'El Clasico' on Sunday had one clear winner - Chennai Super Kings, with Mumbai Indians finishing second best. The much awaited clash had it all. There were terrific performances from the youngsters, MS Dhoni finished CSK's innings with 20 runs off just 4 balls, Rohit Sharma scored a ton, but ultimately it was CSK which came out victorious. Another thing that got repeated was the crowd booing Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya.
Cricket greats like Sunil Gavaskar and Kevin Pietersen criticised his captaincy. While MI lost the match, they still have ample opportunity to qualify for the playoffs. However, they will not get an opportunity to avenge their loss against CSK in the league stage of the IPL 2024. The reason for this is that the teams are placed in different groups.
Mumbai Indians are placed in Group A along with Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Super Giants, Delhi Capitals. Chennai Super Kings are placed in Group B along with Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Titans, Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
According to the IPL 2024 format, the teams in the same group face each other twice in home and away format. On top of that, the teams play four matches with teams from other group at home or away. Against one of the five teams, they play both at home and away.
This time, the draw has been such that Mumbai Indians face Chennai Super Kings only once in the league stage of the IPL 2024. Hence, it is impossible for Mumbai Indians to avenge Sunday's loss in the league stage.
However, if both the teams qualify for the playoffs and face off again, it will be an opportunity for MI to avenge the loss.