MS Dhoni Named IPL Captain; Kohli, ABD In: RCB-CSK Combined Playing XI Of All Time

Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni during CSK vs RCB clash [Source: IPLT20.com]Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni during CSK vs RCB clash [Source: IPLT20.com]

Since its inception, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a subject of fascination for cricket fans around the globe. While it has given India's budding talents a grand platform to showcase their mettle, several legendary figures have graced the lucrative league from time to time. 

Talking about Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, these two teams have been on the opposite side of the spectrum in the IPL. While CSK are five-time title winners, RCB have yet to get their hands on the coveted trophy. 

Nevertheless, both franchises have been homes to some absolute superstars of the game. So, before the IPL 2025 begins, here's an analysis to find their all-time combined XI. 

Top Order: Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina

We have picked RCB's legendary batting duo of Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli as our openers. Gayle and Kohli are absolute legends of the game, having performed admirably for RCB in the IPL. Gayle is unarguably the greatest six-hitter the game has ever seen, while Kohli's consistency makes this pair formidable at the top order. 

Meanwhile, Suresh Raina is the clear frontrunner to play as the number three batter. Regarded as Mr. IPL, Raina was incredible for CSK at number three, scoring 4934 runs at an average of 33.56 and a strike rate of 137.67. 

Middle Order: Ambati Rayudu (Impact Sub), AB de Villiers, MS Dhoni

Ambati Rayudu, who was pivotal in CSK's triumphant IPL journey in the late 2020s and early 2030s, is our impact substitute and bats in the middle order. Former South African captain AB de Villiers, who was hailed for his 360 degree stroke-play bats as a finisher along with captain and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni. While De Villiers has 5162 IPL runs at a superb strike rate of 151.69, Dhoni is a cult IPL figure and, unarguably, the best candidate to lead the team. 

All-Rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo

We have picked CSK's legendary players Ravindra Jadeja and Dwayne Bravo as our all-rounders. While Jadeja brings pace-hitting and wily spin bowling to the table, Bravo's ultimate death-bowling skill makes him an automatic choice in the playing XI. Bravo and Jadeja are the top two highest wicket-takers in CSK's IPL history and their inclusion strengthens the bowling attack of the combined playing XI. 

Bowlers: Deepak Chahar, Mitchell Starc, Mohit Sharma, Yuzvendra Chahal

Deepak Chahar and Mitchell Starc are our strike bowlers, as they can rattle the opposition with their exceptional new-ball bowling. Chahar can be used for three overs straight up in the powerplay, while Starc can be our all-phase bowler, as he can also hit the deck and nail yorkers at searing pace. 

Mohit Sharma has been chosen as our death-bowling specialist, as he can adds versatility to the lineup with his variations and back-of-the-hand slow balls. Yuzvendra Chahal, who has the most wickets in IPL history, makes it into the XI as the solitary spinner. 

RCB-CSK Combined IPL Playing XI

Chris Gayle ✈️
Virat Kohli
Suresh Raina
AB de Villiers ✈️
MS Dhoni (C/WK)
Ravindra Jadeja
Dwayne Bravo ✈️
Deepak Chahar
Mitchell Starc ✈️
Mohit Sharma
Yuzvendra Chahal
Impact Player: Ambati Rayudu