Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are certainly the two most successful franchises in the history of Indian Premier League (IPL). While MI have won the title four times, CSK have lifted the trophy thrice.

When it comes to their rivalry – MI have dominated CSK over the years, boasting a 17-11 head-to-head record. The teams have met in IPL finals four times so far, with Mumbai emerging victorious on three occasions.

As both the sides gear up to play the IPL 2020 opener in Abu Dhabi on September 19, Mumbai players spoke about the MI-CSK rivalry and skipper Rohit Sharma termed it as the “El Clasico of IPL".

See Also: Gautam Gambhir explains why MI have an edge over CSK for the tournament opener

“CSK and us… it's the rivalry that has always been there,” all-rounder Hardik Pandya said.

“The vibe which it creates… MI vs CSK – as a player also you look forward to that,” quipped Hardik's bother Krunal Pandya.

“Because both teams are very well known and they always do well, so it's always an interesting match,” Mumbai’s leading pacer Jasprit Bumrah stated.

“It's become a game that people look forward to,” added Hardik.

“It's the two franchises that are the most loved by the fans. And that's how it becomes special.

“All of us get out A-game out when we are playing against CSK and I wish we always do that.”

MI and CSK faced each other last time in the IPL 2019 final, where Lasith Malinga's final-over heroics helped the former beat latter by one run.

The 13th edition of IPL runs till November 10. The sixty-game event will be held across three venues in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.