Why MI vs CSK match is called 'El Classico' of IPL?

The Mumbai Indians (MI) vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK) match in the IPL is often referred to as the "El Clásico" of IPL due to the intense rivalry between the two teams, Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

The term "El Clásico" is borrowed from the famous football rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid, and it's used to signify the fierce competition and long-standing dominance of both teams in the IPL.

The two teams are the most successful in IPL history, with a combined total of 10 out of the 16 IPL titles; 5 each won by Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). When it comes to head-to-head encounters, MI holds the upper hand over their arch-rivals. Out of the 37 meetings between the two sides in the IPL, MI leads with a 20-17 advantage.