With extensive planning, bio-bubbles, and precautionary travelling, the long hiatus is finally coming to an end. It feels strange yet the excitement is numbing. The players will be embraced with empty chairs and silence, while the households of millions will sparkle with joy. Things look different and strange, nevertheless, India’s favourite festival, IPL is back! The season is starting with the defending champions, Mumbai Indians, facing the mighty Chennai Super Kings.
In the past 12 seasons, every time the two have had a face-off, it has been beyond eventful and memorable. As we look back and cherish the several moments between the two teams, one game in specific stands out for Anuj Rayate, an ardent cricket fan. Hailing from Nashik, Anuj spoke to us about his favourite Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings game.
“The 2010 finals is a game every Mumbai fan has tried their best to forget. It was the game Sachin slammed the bat to the ground in a state of anger. It was on the 25th of April, Mumbai were favourites in that game. A sea of blue dominated the DY Patil stadium in Navi Mumbai, Sachin and Dhoni walked out for the toss and the cheer in the stadium was deafening – I mean, at home, the commentators were barely heard!
Chennai won that final but it was nothing short of a roller coaster ride. I remember vividly that CSK with Raina taking charge, battled through a mini-batting collapse and when put to bowl, dominated the star-studded Mumbai line-up which resulted in a major upset – Mumbai failed to lift the trophy. The game had several ups and downs. As a Mumbai fan, the game was heartbreaking to watch but as a cricket fan, it is one of the best T20 games I had ever witnessed. I went to bed feeling empty yet my heart was full of joy. That is what the game does to you, doesn’t it? Breaks your heart, yet gives you something to hold onto forever.”
Harsha Bhogle writes, at 7:30 pm, “every evening, you can look forward to being entertained and even if briefly, to escape into another world.” The time has come to fill your homes with joy and to make new memories. As another IPL season begins to make its grand entrance, remember, that the fun this season is Beyond The Pitch. Are you ready?
Reported by Shriya Rajachandra
Featured Image Credits: Cricket Addictor
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