IPL 2023 MI vs CSK: Kaif, Pathan Brothers opine ahead of El Clasico of Indian Premier League

The gladiators of the Indian Premier League lock horns for the first time this season as Mumbai Indians take on Chennai Super Kings on Saturday (April 8).

The two teams have won the IPL title nine times combined and the El Clasico of the IPL 2023 edition has garnered plenty of attention. Both teams failed last season with bottom-placed finishes and aim to make amends for their dismal outing in 2022.

And former Indian cricketers and pundits have opined their thoughts on the match ahead of the tie.

Speaking to Star Sports, the official broadcaster of TATA IPL, former India player Yusuf Pathan said, "Fans in Mumbai will always want MS Dhoni to entertain them with his performance but wish Mumbai Indians to win the match.

But you see it is difficult to beat MI at home. There have been 10 matches between CSK and MI at Wankhede Stadium so far and MI have won seven times. If you believe in the figures, then Mumbai Indians are definitely going to pocket those two vital points."

Meanwhile former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif cautioned Mumbai Indians to not take CSK lightly because the Yellow Army is known for comebacks.

"MI always look strong at home but CSK are difficult to beat on any ground. In such a situation, MI will have to work hard at Wankhede to get their first two points of this season," Kaif opined.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan cited the example of GT, LSG, RCB and CSK - who won their first home games in IPL 2023 - and backed Rohit Sharma and his Blue Brigade to come on top.

"It is difficult to pick one winner between MI and CSK but since MI is playing at home this time, they have better chances of winning this game," Irfan concluded.

(with inputs from agency)