It’s the southern derby time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) takes on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in match eight tonight at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai tonight, i.e., March 28 at 7:30 PM IST.
In the IPL 2025 campaign opener, CSK faced their arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) in a low-scoring encounter. Despite struggling initially in their chase of 156, CSK managed to get across the line in 19.1 overs, finishing with 158/6 and securing a 4-wicket win. The five-time champs will once again bank on Rachin Ravindra, who scored an exceptional knock. Furthermore, the likes of Rahul Tripathi, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and others will also have a lot to prove. The Chennai side boasts experienced spinners such as Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and the newcomer Noor Ahmad, all of whom have been instrumental in recent matches, including their win against MI.
RCB outclassed the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) with a remarkable chase of the 175-run target, completing it in just 16.2 overs. They finished with 177/3, securing a commanding 7-wicket victory to kick off their campaign on a winning note. RCB’s batting lineup, led by Virat Kohli, will need a more strategic approach rather than an overly aggressive one to tackle CSK’s spin trio. Kohli’s improved handling of spin in recent years will be key, but he will require support from players like Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar, Liam Livingstone, and Jitesh Sharma. RCB may also opt to include Jacob Bethell for additional spin options, and they will be keeping an eye on Bhuvneshwar Kumar‘s fitness ahead of the match. RCB has only managed to defeat CSK once at Chepauk, back in the 2008 season. Virat Kohli, the only player from the current squad who was part of that victory, will be looking to replicate that success.
Head-to-Head:
Both teams have faced each other 33 times, out of which RCB clinched 11 games, whereas CSK have come out victorious on 21 occasions. One game also ended without a result.
In their last encounter, the Red and Gold Army secured a thrilling 27-run victory, ensuring they qualify for the playoffs.
Where-to-Watch:
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