[WATCH] IPL 2025: Hardik Pandya operates IPL’s robot dog Champak with remote control, scares Akash Ambani

The Mumbai Indians (MI) defeated the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), their long-time rivals, hat-trick of victories on Sunday, April 20, and surged back into the playoff race. MI captain Hardik Pandya and team owner Akash Ambani have some fun after the all-encompassing performance.

The newest member of the Indian Premier League (IPL) broadcast team, the robot dog, which was given the name “Champak” prior to the MI vs CSK match, was controlled by Hardik using a remote control following the game.

Ambani was startled by the Baroda all-rounder’s ability to make it leap at him. Hardik Pandya was having a great time attempting to manage Champak.

Areyy Idhi remote control kukka naa , nenu inni rojulu robo kukka anukuntunna pic.twitter.com/SL4RoNQ1qO

— EpicCommentsTelugu (@EpicCmntsTelugu) April 21, 2025

The fan and player alike have fallen in love with the four-legged gadget. A few weeks ago, former New Zealand pacer and top commentator Danny Morrison revealed it, and since then, it has engaged with other players. Champak is a cutting-edge tool that has made quick progress in improving the viewing experience.

MI defeats CSK with ease in a lopsided IPL El Clasico.

After winning a crucial toss on Sunday, Hardik chose to field first. The quickfire 32 off 15 from youngster Ayush Mhatre gave CSK one of their greatest powerplay starts of the season. Shaik Rasheed, however, scored a 20-ball 19 after playing an odd knock from the other end.

It took them a long time to feel settled at the crease, but the connection between Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja blossomed towards the end. CSK posted 176/5 in their 20 overs thanks to half-centuries from both left-handed batsmen. The CSK bowlers, however, had their work cut out for them because dew was already becoming noticeable.

Ryan Rickelton was dismissed by Jadeja after the South African batsman and Rohit Sharma combined for 63 runs for the first wicket in the opening seven overs. Rohit and Suryakumar Yadav teamed up after Rickelton was dismissed, and the seasoned pair put together an undefeated 114-run partnership off 54 balls to lead their team home.

As MI won by nine wickets and 26 balls remaining, Suryakumar hammered 68 not out off 30 deliveries, while Rohit concluded with an undefeated 76 off 45 balls. The victory put the five-time champions at No. 6 in the standings.