The excitement is building for the first Southern Derby of IPL 2025, as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. This legendary clash, set for March 28, is more than just a cricket match—it’s a battle between two of the most passionate fan bases in the Indian Premier League. While CSK has historically dominated this rivalry, RCB’s thrilling victory last year has added an extra layer of intensity. Fans can expect a high-energy contest as MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli step onto the field once again.
CSK vs RCB: A Rivalry Rooted in History
CSK’s Dominance Over RCB
- CSK leads the head-to-head record 21-11
- RCB has won only once in Chennai in IPL history
- Chepauk is a spin-friendly venue, challenging for RCB’s batsmen
Despite being an exciting fixture, the CSK vs RCB rivalry has been one-sided, with Chennai enjoying an 8-1 record at Chepauk. However, RCB fans finally had something to cheer about in 2024 when their team knocked CSK out of the playoffs in a dramatic match in Bengaluru. That moment has fueled anticipation for this year’s showdown.
The Emotional Highs and Lows of Last Year
RCB’s Triumph in 2024: A Shocking Moment for CSK
- RCB’s victory over CSK last year was a playoff decider
- MS Dhoni’s late dismissal cost CSK a playoff spot
- RCB’s emotional celebration sparked debates among fans
In the last IPL season, CSK needed just 11 runs from the final 5 balls to secure a playoff spot, with MS Dhoni at the crease. But when he was dismissed, RCB celebrated their win like never before. Dhoni, visibly disappointed, walked off without shaking hands, sparking debates about sportsmanship. That moment has only intensified the rivalry, making this upcoming match even more thrilling.
The Kohli-Dhoni Factor: A Clash of Legends
The CSK vs RCB rivalry isn’t just about the teams; it’s about two cricketing icons—MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli. These two former India captains have always shared mutual respect, but on the field, they remain fierce competitors.
- MS Dhoni: The undisputed leader of CSK
- Virat Kohli: RCB’s backbone and leading run-scorer
- This could be one of their last IPL clashes
With both players nearing the end of their IPL careers, this match could be one of their final face-offs, making it even more special for fans worldwide.
Key Tactical Battle: RCB’s Struggle Against Spin
Why Chepauk’s Pitch Poses a Threat to RCB
- CSK has built a strong spin attack with Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, and Noor Ahmed
- RCB has historically struggled against spin at Chepauk
- RCB has been bowled out for under 150 five times in Chennai
RCB’s biggest challenge will be overcoming CSK’s spin-heavy attack on a pitch that has troubled them in the past. Last year, Chepauk was one of the flattest pitches in IPL, but early reports suggest spin will play a big role in 2025.
RCB’s Hope: Kohli and Salt’s Form
Despite their struggles against spin, RCB’s top order, led by Virat Kohli and Phil Salt, looked in great form in their last match. They dominated against KKR’s spin duo of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy, giving RCB fans a reason to be hopeful.
CSK vs RCB: Predicted Playing XIs
CSK (Predicted XI)
- Rachin Ravindra
- Rahul Tripathi
- Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain)
- Deepak Hooda
- Shivam Dube
- Sam Curran
- MS Dhoni (wicketkeeper)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- R Ashwin
- Noor Ahmed
- Nathan Ellis
Impact Player: Khaleel Ahmed
RCB (Predicted XI)
- Virat Kohli
- Phil Salt
- Rajat Patidar
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Liam Livingstone
- Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper)
- Krunal Pandya
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Josh Hazlewood
- Yash Dayal
- Suyash Sharma
Pitch and Weather Report
- Pitch Conditions: Spin-friendly but offers value for shots
- Weather: Hot and humid, with a slight chance of dew
- Winning Strategy: Teams may prefer bowling first
The Chepauk surface is expected to aid spinners, making life tough for RCB’s middle order. Dew could play a role in the second innings, influencing team strategies.
Final Thoughts: Who Holds the Edge?
This Southern Derby will be an intense battle of history vs. redemption. Chennai will be confident, given their strong record at home and powerful spin attack. However, RCB’s recent form, led by Kohli and Salt, cannot be ignored. With MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli potentially facing off for the last time in Chennai, this match promises to be a thriller filled with drama, passion, and unforgettable moments.