The Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians timeline captures one of the most iconic and fiercely contested rivalries in Indian Premier League history. Since the very first season in 2008, CSK and MI have been among the most successful and popular franchises. Both teams boast five IPL championships each, and their head-to-head clashes have often featured high drama, tactical battles, thrilling finishes, and performances from some of the biggest names in cricket. This timeline tells the story of how this rivalry has evolved over nearly two decades, highlighting major matches, turning points, and memorable moments that have shaped IPL history.
Table of Contents
Head-to-Head Overview: CSK vs MI Stats
Mumbai Indians currently hold a slight edge in the overall Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians timeline head-to-head count, though the rivalry has swung back and forth over the years, with both teams enjoying periods of dominance.
| Format | Matches Played | CSK Wins | MI Wins | No Result |
| IPL (T20) | 39 | 18 | 21 | 0 |
First Match in the Timeline
23 April 2008 – Inaugural IPL Encounter
The rivalry began on 23 April 2008 in Chennai, when the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians met for the first time in IPL history. CSK emerged victorious by 6 runs in a thrilling contest. This inaugural clash set the stage for what would become the IPL’s greatest rivalry.
Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians Timeline
Over the years, both teams have showcased star performances, dramatic finishes, and historic moments that have defined the league.
2008–2012 – Foundation Years & First Title Clash
In the early years of the IPL, CSK and MI quickly grew into consistent playoff contenders. After their first meeting in 2008:
- In 2010, CSK defeated MI in the IPL final to claim their first championship, creating a historic milestone in the rivalry.
- Through this period, both teams built competitive records and established their identities as premier franchises.
2013–2019 – MI’s Dominant Era
The mid‑2010s saw Mumbai Indians dominate many head-to-head battles, especially in finals:
- The two sides met in four IPL finals in this era — 2010, 2013, 2015, and 2019.
- MI emerged victorious in three finals (2013, 2015, and 2019), while CSK won the 2010 final.
- MI’s success was powered by consistent leadership and strong team depth, contributing to their string of championships.
2020–2024 – Renewed Balance and Close Battles
As the IPL entered the 2020s, the rivalry became more evenly contested:
- 2024: CSK posted a strong win over MI by 20 runs, showcasing their ability to defend big totals.
- Throughout these seasons, both teams continued to exchange victories, proving that neither side could dominate consistently.
2025 – Back-and-Forth Encounters
The 2025 season produced a couple of notable CSK vs MI matches:
- 23 March 2025 — CSK won by 4 wickets: At Chepauk, Chennai chased down a target with calm finishing and smart innings pacing.
- 20 April 2025 — MI won by 9 wickets: Mumbai chased CSK’s total emphatically, highlighting their powerful batting lineup on home turf.
Tournament Trophies
Both teams stand head-and-shoulders above the rest in IPL history. As of the 2025 season, CSK and MI have each won five IPL championships, making them the most successful franchises in the league’s history:
- Chennai Super Kings IPL Titles: 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023
- Mumbai Indians IPL Titles: 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020
| Team | IPL Titles | Years Won | Runner-up Finishes | Years Runner-up |
| Chennai Super Kings | 5 | 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023 | 5 | 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2019 |
| Mumbai Indians | 5 | 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020 | 1 | 2010 |
Key Milestones in the Rivalry
- 2008: CSK win the first CSK vs MI match in IPL history.
- 2010: CSK beat MI in the IPL final to win their first title.
- 2013, 2015, 2019: MI victories over CSK in IPL finals cement MI’s dominance in finals.
- 2024: CSK win by 20 runs in a key league contest.
- 2025: Both sides trade commanding wins, reinforcing the competitiveness of the rivalry.
Top Performers in the CSK vs MI Rivalry
Batting Legends
- Rohit Sharma (MI): A key figure in MI’s success with consistent high scores and leadership.
- Suresh Raina (CSK): A stalwart for Chennai with impactful innings across many seasons.
- MS Dhoni (CSK): Known for calm finishing and leadership under pressure.
Bowling Icons
- Lasith Malinga (MI): Instrumental in MI’s early success with crucial wickets in big matches.
- Dwayne Bravo (MI): Played several important middle-over bowling roles.
- Matheesha Pathirana (CSK): Emerged as a key bowler in recent seasons.
These players have defined memorable moments in this rivalry’s rich history.
Moments That Shaped the Timeline
- CSK’s opening win (2008): Set the stage for decades of rivalry.
- 2010 IPL Final: CSK triumph in a historic championship clash.
- MI’s finals dominance: Three wins over CSK in title matches.
- See-saw contests in the 2020s: Recent matches showcasing balance and competitiveness.
Conclusion
The Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians timeline is a story of evolving competition between two of the IPL’s most successful franchises. With equal numbers of IPL championships, and a head-to-head record that closely mirrors their competitive spirit, this rivalry remains one of the most compelling narratives in T20 cricket. Whether it’s finals history, legendary individual performances, or recent high-stakes matches, every chapter adds depth and excitement to this enduring IPL clash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When did CSK and MI first play against each other?
CSK and MI faced off for the first time on 23 April 2008. Chennai Super Kings won the inaugural match by 6 runs, kicking off this historic rivalry.
2. What is the head-to-head record between CSK and MI?
As of 2025, the teams have played 39 IPL matches. Mumbai Indians lead with 21 wins, while CSK has 18 victories, with no matches ending in no result.
3. Who has the highest individual score in CSK vs MI matches?
The top score in this rivalry is 117 by Suryakumar Yadav (MI)* in a high-pressure chase. This innings remains one of the most memorable performances in head-to-head history.
4. Which team has won more IPL titles in this rivalry?
Both CSK and MI have won 5 IPL championships each, making them the joint most successful franchises in league history. Their title clashes have often been decisive in shaping the IPL legacy.
5. Why is the CSK vs MI rivalry significant in IPL history?
This rivalry combines experience, strategy, and star power, featuring thrilling finals and memorable performances. It is widely regarded as the most iconic IPL clash for fans and players alike.
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