In the 68th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will lock horns with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru today, i.e., Saturday, May 18, at 7:30 PM IST.
What looked like a dead-end to RCB’s season is now completely wide open, with a clear path to the playoffs. From seven losses in eight games at the start of the season to five back-to-back wins, RCB have defied their ‘Challengers’ reputation. A win tonight by a certain margin and RCB will head to Ahmedabad to play the Eliminator game. However, it’s the weather that might pose a huge obstacle. Bengaluru has been experiencing drizzles for the previous few days, and there is another 80% chance of rain tonight. However, given the advancements in the drainage system at the stadium, a match is likely to happen.
If the match is played for a complete 20 overs, the Royals from Bengaluru have to win by 18 runs or chase in 18.1 overs. Similarly, if the five-over contest is held, RCB needs to chase whatever the target is in just 3.1 overs for their NRR to go over CSK. The likes of Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and others will have to forget about the buildup play and straightaway begin hammering the ball all over the park. For the same reasons, a lot will be dependent on fellow Aussie Glenn Maxwell. The form of Rajat Patidar has proved to be season-changing for the unit. Moreover, with the ball, Yash Dayal has been good and will again be crucial in the powerplay against Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra. Mohammed Siraj, Karn Sharma, and Lockie Ferguson will also have to contribute effectively.
The visitors find the game straightforward. Either take two points and move into the top two scenario, or lose by a significant margin and be eliminated from the tournament. A tight loss will likely allow them to play the Eliminator. Both openers, Gaikwad and Ravindra have important parts to play tonight, while Shivam Dube and Daryl Mitchell will also be key in the middle overs. Even MS Dhoni can showcase his strength tonight, while Ravindra Jadega will be vital with the ball. In the past, the left-arm spinner has cleaned up Maxwell, Kohli, and Dinesh Karthik three times each. Simarjeet Singh is also in top form but will be tested heavily tonight, while the unit will also rely on Maheesh Theekshana and Tushar Despande.
Head-to-head:
CSK dominate the head-to-head battle with RCB. Both teams played each other 32 times, with Chennai winning 21 and Bangalore winning 10.
The defending champions won by six wickets in their previous outing earlier this season.
Where-to-watch:
TV: Star Sports Network
OTT: JioCinema