IPL 2025: CSK vs RCB Match Preview – Southern Derby at Chepauk

Published: 28-03-2025, 10.04 AM
Updated: 28-03-2025, 10.04 AM

IPL 2025 CSK vs RCB – The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 continues to enthrall cricket fans worldwide, and today’s marquee matchup between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) promises to be a thrilling contest. The Southern Derby, set to take place at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, is a battle between two IPL heavyweights aiming to maintain their winning momentum.

Match Details CSK vs RCB

Fixture: Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Date: March 28, 2025
Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Time: 7:30 PM IST

Recent Form

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):
CSK started their campaign with a victory against Mumbai Indians (MI), chasing a tricky target on a spin-friendly Chepauk pitch. Ruturaj Gaikwad (53 off 26 balls) and Rachin Ravindra (65 off 45 balls) spearheaded the chase, while Noor Ahmad’s exceptional bowling spell of 4/18 dismantled MI’s batting lineup. With their potent spin attack led by Ravindra Jadeja and Noor Ahmad, CSK looks well-equipped for home conditions.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB):
RCB began IPL 2025 with an emphatic win against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 59 off 36 balls and Phil Salt’s blistering half-century ensured a comfortable chase of 175 runs with 22 balls to spare. Josh Hazlewood and Krunal Pandya impressed with the ball, showcasing RCB’s balanced bowling attack. Kohli, who has been in sublime form, will aim to extend his dominance against CSK—a team he has scored over 1,000 runs against in IPL history.

Head-to-Head Record CSK vs RCB

CSK and RCB have faced each other multiple times in IPL history, with CSK holding the upper hand. Known for their consistency, CSK has won five IPL titles compared to RCB’s lack of championship glory despite reaching the finals thrice. However, RCB’s star-studded lineup always makes them formidable opponents.

Key Players to Watch

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

Ruturaj Gaikwad: The skipper is in prime form after his explosive knock against MI. His ability to anchor innings while accelerating makes him crucial at the top.
Rachin Ravindra: A rising star who played a match-winning innings in the last game. His adaptability on spin-friendly tracks is vital.
Noor Ahmad: The Afghan spinner was the standout performer with figures of 4/18 against MI. He will be key on Chennai’s turning pitch.
MS Dhoni: The legendary wicketkeeper-batsman continues to be a calming presence for CSK. His leadership and finishing skills remain unmatched.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB):

Virat Kohli: The highest run-scorer in IPL history, Kohli thrives in big matches like these. His record against CSK speaks volumes about his capability.
Phil Salt: The Englishman showcased his aggressive batting style against KKR and will look to replicate that performance at Chepauk.
Josh Hazlewood: The Australian pacer provides control and breakthroughs with his disciplined bowling approach.
Krunal Pandya: An all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. His spin bowling could be impactful on Chennai’s surface.

Pitch Report

The MA Chidambaram Stadium traditionally favors spinners due to its slow and dry surface. Batting becomes challenging as the game progresses, making it crucial for teams to capitalize during the powerplay overs. Scores around 160-170 are considered competitive at this venue.

Predicted Playing XIs

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

Ruturaj Gaikwad (c)
Rachin Ravindra
Deepak Hooda
Shivam Dube
Ravindra Jadeja
Sam Curran
MS Dhoni (wk)
Ravichandran Ashwin
Noor Ahmad
Nathan Ellis
Khaleel Ahmed

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB):

Virat Kohli
Phil Salt
Rajat Patidar (c)
Liam Livingstone
Jitesh Sharma (wk)
Tim David
Krunal Pandya
Rasikh Salam Dar/Swapnil Singh
Suyash Sharma
Josh Hazlewood
Yash Dayal.

Key Battles

Virat Kohli vs Ravindra Jadeja: Kohli’s mastery against spin will be tested by Jadeja’s accuracy and variations.
Noor Ahmad vs Phil Salt: The Afghan spinner will aim to restrict Salt’s aggressive stroke play.
Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Josh Hazlewood: Gaikwad’s ability to dominate pacers early on will be crucial against Hazlewood’s disciplined line and length.

Match Prediction

Given the conditions at Chepauk favoring spinners, CSK might have a slight edge due to their superior spin attack led by Jadeja and Noor Ahmad. However, if Kohli continues his red-hot form and RCB’s middle order fires collectively, they could turn the tide in their favor.

Conclusion

The Southern Derby between CSK and RCB is shaping up to be an electrifying contest that pits experience against aggression. With both teams coming off wins in their opening matches, fans can expect high-quality cricket under the lights at Chepauk.

Stay tuned for live updates as these two IPL giants lock horns in what promises to be an unforgettable showdown!

Sources