This match is not just another game! Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is always exciting, even though CSK has won most of their past matches. It may not be the El Clasico of IPL, but it surely feels like a big rivalry.
One reason for this is the closeness of the two cities – it’s just a six-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai. Fans from both teams are very passionate, and this time, CSK fans might be extra charged up after facing heckling in Bengaluru when RCB knocked them out in last year’s IPL.
CSK vs RCB at Chepauk – A One-Sided History?
CSK has not lost to RCB at MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) since 2008, but this time, the local fans can expect a real fight. The Times of India (TOI) looks at key points that might make this a close contest.
Virat Kohli’s Focused Approach
If you follow Virat Kohli, you’ll know that he rarely practices for two long sessions on back-to-back days before a match. But this time, at Chepauk on Wednesday and Thursday, he did exactly that. He faced practice bowlers who simulated the CSK spin attack of Ravichandran Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, and Ravindra Jadeja.
The spin-friendly pitch will test Kohli and captain Rajat Patidar, but RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik believes Kohli is totally focused on making an impact. Patidar, too, is a solid player, and his performance can boost RCB’s confidence.
CSK knows that Kohli and Patidar are key wickets. CSK coach Stephen Fleming said, “They have strengthened their team like most franchises, but if we keep these two quiet, it will help us.”
CSK’s Injury Concern – Pathirana’s Absence?
CSK’s Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana missed the first game due to an injury. Many reports say he may not recover soon, but coach Fleming did not confirm anything. When asked, he just said, “He is getting better.”
If Pathirana is unavailable, CSK will have a weaker bowling attack in the middle and death overs. Nathan Ellis, with his cutters, can be an option, but RCB’s batters won’t be too worried about facing him.
With high energy, big players, and passionate fans, this CSK vs RCB battle is set to be a thrilling contest!
