IPL 2020: The Indian Premier League is by far the most popular cricket league in the world. The 13th edition of IPL began last Saturday in the United Arab Emirates. Unfortunately, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, no fans are allowed inside the stadiums this year. However, the broadcasters Star Sports Network has ensured that the fans sitting at home get a perfect viewing experience.
IPL 2020 got off to a rocking start with a rematch of the IPL 2019 final between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings. The fans were highly excited about this clash not only because of the resumption of Indian cricket but also because of the fact that it was MS Dhoni’s first match after international cricket retirement.
MS Dhoni sported a new look at the toss and surprised everyone with his incredible physique. Mumbai also had some surprises in the store as they included Saurabh Tiwary in the team.
Quinton de Kock played brilliantly in the opening position. However, no other batsman except Tiwary could back him up well. Eventually, Mumbai ended the innings with 162 runs.
It seemed like they were 10-15 runs short, but Trent Boult and James Pattinson put pressure on Chennai by removing Murali Vijay and Shane Watson early. Ambati Rayudu and Faf du Plessis drove Chennai home with their match-winning partnership.
There was a huge moment in the match as MS Dhoni was adjudged out by the on-field umpire on his first ball. However, Dhoni opted for a review and the decision was overturned.
Unfortunately, he could not score a single run as CSK won the game before that. The cricket pundits had expected high viewership numbers for IPL 2020 and the first match did not disappoint them as MI vs. CSK drew a massive viewership of 20 crores.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah shared this news on Twitter and wrote:
“Opening match of #Dream11IPL sets a new record! As per BARC, an unprecedented 20crore people tuned in to watch the match. Highest ever opening day viewership for any sporting league in any country- no league has ever opened as big as this.”
Opening match of #Dream11IPL sets a new record!
As per BARC, an unprecedented 20crore people tuned in to watch the match. Highest ever opening day viewership for any sporting league in any country- no league has ever opened as big as this. @IPL @SGanguly99 @UShanx @DisneyPlusHS
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) September 22, 2020
