Why will CSK and MI face each other only once in IPL 2024 league stage?

The contests between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) are often referred to as one of the most intense rivalries in the cash-rich league. It is often regarded as the El Clásico of the IPL. These two powerhouse teams have locked horns 36 times in the IPL, with MI boasting a record of 21 victories. Meanwhile, both giants have clinched the IPL titles five times each, a record unmatched by any other team in the tournament's history.

Mumbai and Chennai who are placed in different groups will only face off just once in the ongoing IPL 2024. The blockbuster encounter is slated to be held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on April 14. As per the format, each team plays eight matches within their group - both home and away against the other four teams. In addition, each plays four matches against teams from the other group, either at home or away, with one team facing the remaining team twice, both at home and away. Notably, the formatting of the groups and the allocation of matches across groups were determined via a random draw.

CSK vs MI AT WANKHEDE...!!!!

- They will face off only once in league stage. pic.twitter.com/YvjzxAnsJ7

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 25, 2024

CSK dominates, MI struggles in IPL 2024 opening matches

CSK began their title defence with an impressive six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2024 opener at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday, March 22. They will face off once again in the ongoing tournament which will be hosted by the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chennai will next face off with 2022 champions Gujarat Titans in their second match on Tuesday, March 26.

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MI, on the other hand, endured a narrow six-run defeat against the Shubman Gill-led side at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 24. Notably, the defeat extended MI's losing streak in their IPL opening fixture to 12 consecutive times. They will next take on Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 27, followed by hosting Rajasthan Royals on April 1.