The much-awaited season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is about to start in a matter of hours and the fact that makes the occasion even more special is the tournament opener. The first game of the IPL 2018 is scheduled to take place between the biggest rivals in the history of the tournament, Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai. While CSK will be making a comeback in IPL after facing a two-year ban, MI has the responsibility of defending its crown. Ahead of this high expectations match, let’s have a look at the x-factors of the match.

1. Sam Billings (CSK)

Sam Billings is yet to establish himself in the England team but he has the experience of playing around the globe. He has played in the IPL before for Delhi Daredevils. Although he averages only 14 in his T20I career, he has a strike rate of 135. His highest score 53 came against Pakistan in Dubai, he was declared Man of the Match for his performance. Playing for the Delhi franchise, Billings has taken the field in 11 IPL games. In these, he has scored 226 with two fifties and a strike rate of 134. This year, CSK does not have an opening batsman who can thrash the ball from the onset. Fitting that role, Billings may very well be the player Dhoni needs.