The highly anticipated IPL 2025 Southern Derby is here! Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will face off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday, March 28. This match is more than just a game—it’s a battle of pride, history, and passionate fan bases. While CSK has dominated this rivalry over the years, RCB’s thrilling win last season has added even more excitement to this contest. With cricket legends MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli in the spotlight, the atmosphere at Chepauk is expected to be electric.
CSK vs RCB: A Rivalry That Never Disappoints
CSK and RCB have one of the fiercest rivalries in the IPL. While CSK leads the head-to-head record with 21 wins compared to RCB’s 11, every match between these two teams is a must-watch. The rivalry extends beyond IPL, rooted in the historic Tamil Nadu vs Karnataka cricketing battles.
Although CSK has been the more successful team, RCB has a dedicated fan base that continues to believe in their team’s potential. The presence of Dhoni and Kohli has only added to the intensity, making this fixture one of the most-watched events in IPL history.
Last Year’s Emotional Showdown
One of the most dramatic moments in this rivalry came last year when RCB knocked CSK out of the playoffs with a stunning victory in Bengaluru. The match had everything—thrilling batting, tense moments, and emotional reactions. Dhoni, who had nearly pulled off a miraculous chase, was dismissed in the final over, crushing CSK’s playoff hopes.
RCB celebrated wildly, while Dhoni’s decision to skip the post-match handshake led to debates among fans and pundits. Now, as both teams meet again, the emotions from last year’s encounter will surely fuel the intensity of this battle.
Key Players to Watch
MS Dhoni vs Virat Kohli
Both Dhoni and Kohli are icons of Indian cricket, and their presence guarantees high viewership. With speculation about Dhoni’s retirement, this match could be one of his last battles against Kohli in the IPL.
Phil Salt and Ruturaj Gaikwad
Salt has been in outstanding form for RCB, while Gaikwad has taken over the captaincy duties for CSK. Both openers will play a crucial role in setting the tone for their teams.
CSK’s Spin Trio: Jadeja, Ashwin, and Noor Ahmed
CSK has built a strong spin attack, featuring Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, and Noor Ahmed. With Chepauk’s pitch favoring spin, RCB’s batters will have a tough challenge ahead.
RCB’s Middle Order and Death Bowling
RCB’s middle order, led by Rajat Patidar and Liam Livingstone, will need to counter CSK’s spinners effectively. Their bowling attack, including Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal, will also be crucial in restricting CSK’s power-hitters.
Pitch Report and Weather Conditions
- Pitch: The Chepauk surface is expected to assist spinners, making batting difficult, especially in the middle overs.
- Weather: The match will be played under humid conditions, with a slight chance of dew in the second innings.
- Toss Strategy: Winning the toss and bowling first could be the best approach, as dew might help the chasing team later in the match.
CSK vs RCB: Predicted Playing XIs
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
- Batting: Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Deepak Hooda, Shivam Dube, Sam Curran, MS Dhoni
- Bowling: Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Noor Ahmed, Nathan Ellis
- Impact Sub: Khaleel Ahmed
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
- Batting: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar, Devdutt Padikkal, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma
- Bowling: Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma
Match Prediction and Expectations
With both teams coming off strong performances in their opening matches, this contest promises to be a thriller. CSK’s dominant home record and strong spin attack give them an edge, but RCB’s aggressive batting lineup, led by Kohli and Salt, could pose a serious threat.
Regardless of the result, this match is set to be another unforgettable chapter in the CSK vs RCB rivalry. Fans can expect high-intensity action, dramatic moments, and plenty of excitement as two of IPL’s biggest teams go head-to-head once again.