CSK vs RCB IPL 2025: Gaikwad's Opening Return? Bhuvneshwar's First Game? Predicted XIs

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Two teams that have recently achieved remarkable victories in their opening match of the IPL 2025 season are set to face each other in a highly charged rivalry. This marks the much-anticipated Southern Derby of the IPL — Chennai Super Kings versus Royal Challengers Bengaluru. These neighboring cities are filled with pride and possess a rich history, particularly within this tournament. The clash features two legendary former Indian captains, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, who have seamlessly transitioned into the roles of seasoned veterans, still capable of delivering exceptional performances. This promises to be an electrifying encounter to kick off the IPL weekend.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru commenced the IPL season with a commanding victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens, bolstered by an outstanding bowling display from Krunal Pandya. Contributions from Phil Salt, Kohli, and Rajat Patidar enabled them to chase down the target with ample time remaining. This performance signals a renewed determination from a team that has exuded a different energy since the auction, positioning themselves as serious contenders for their first IPL title.

Conversely, the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings are well aware of what it takes to secure victory, and it is uncommon for them not to be competing at the top of the standings. With two home games at Chepauk to kick off their season, CSK aims to secure a second win and establish a strong foundation for another successful year. Their opening victory against Mumbai was highlighted by Noor Ahmed’s impressive four-wicket haul and a smooth innings from captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, which were key to their success.

Teams typically prefer to maintain stability when they achieve a strong start at the beginning of the season, as these players have successfully collaborated to secure an early victory. Nevertheless, adjustments may still occur, albeit on a smaller scale. For example, Rahul Tripathi's role as an opening batsman for CSK has not yielded the desired results, and throughout his IPL career, he has demonstrated greater effectiveness batting at number three. This situation could lead to Gaikwad reclaiming his position as the opening batsman alongside Rachin Ravindra, allowing Tripathi to take on the one-drop position. Tripathi's ability to score quickly from the first ball is advantageous, as it helps maintain momentum following the loss of the opening wicket.

RCB will be eager for Bhuvneshwar Kumar to complete a fitness test ahead of this crucial match. During KKR's batting innings, there was a moment when Ajinkya Rahane and Sunil Narine appeared to be gaining momentum, but the seam bowlers managed to regain control. The experience and aggressive approach that Bhuvi brings could help them secure a few early wickets, preventing CSK from establishing a rapid start. In this scenario, Rasikh Salam is likely to be the player left out. Additionally, Swapnil Singh may be included as an extra frontline spin option on a pitch expected to favor slow turners.

Predicted XI for CSK: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Shivam Dube, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, Nathan Ellis, Khaleel Ahmed

Predicted XI for RCB: Phil Salt (wk), Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar/Rasikh Salam, Yash Dayal

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