Faf du Plessis with MS Dhoni (IPLT20.com)
The D-Day is here. The defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to kickstart their IPL 2024 campaign as they face off against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in a highly anticipated clash this Friday at Chepauk.
CSK enters the tournament with an illustrious track record but without the leadership of their Thala, having secured five IPL titles under Dhoni's astute leadership. Whereas, RCB would look to double up on the trophies this year after Smriti Mandhana & Co. successful efforts at WPL 2024.
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CSK vs RCB: Team Previews
Chennai Super Kings
CSK boasts a formidable lineup, with a diverse pool of all-rounders at their disposal. From the spin wizardry of Ravindra Jadeja to the explosive batting prowess of players like Shivam Dube and Daryl Mitchell, the team possesses versatility in both batting and bowling departments.
However, challenges loom in the bowling department, particularly in the death overs, where CSK lacks a seasoned campaigner. While Deepak Chahar provide potency with the new ball, Pathirana's absence caused by his hamstring injury is a setback for the Yellow Army.
Royal Challengers Bangalore
On the other side of the pitch, RCB, while retaining the core of their squad from IPL 2023, presents a stronger lineup on paper with strategic additions. Led by the prolific Faf du Plessis and bolstered by the arrival of players like Cameron Green, RCB aims to capitalize on their solid middle order and a revamped pace battery featuring Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, and Lockie Ferguson headed by none other than Mohd. Siraj.
CSK vs RCB: Match Details & Live Streaming
| Date | 22 March 2024 |
| Venue | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai |
| Timing | 7:30 PM onwards |
| Broadcast & Live Streaming | StarSports and JioCinema |
CSK vs RCB: M.A. Chidambaram Pitch Report
The MA Chidambaram stadium pitch in Chennai promises a dry surface favoring spinners throughout the match. Expect minimal lateral movement but potential for steep bounce for hit-the-deck bowlers. Despite abrasive conditions, the pitch surprisingly maintains its quality, especially under lights. Opting to bowl first could exploit early advantages, with batting conditions improving later. However, historically, teams prefer batting first to play it safe under the hot, humid climate. Both captains might lean towards tradition despite the tempting prospect of exploiting the pitch early on.
CSK vs RCB: Probable Playing XIs
Chennai Super Kings: Rachin Ravindra, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Maheesh Theekshana, Tushar Deshpande
Impact Players: Mitchell Santner, Moeen Ali, Mukesh Choudhary, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (c), Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Mahipal Lomror, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Karn Sharma, Mayank Dagar, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammed Siraj
Impact Players: Yash Dayal, Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Suyash Prabhudessai, Anuj Rawat
CSK vs RCB: Fantoss Fantasy Tips
| Roles | Players |
|---|---|
| Wicket-keepers | Dinesh Karthik |
| Batters | Ajinkya Rahane, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, Virat Kohli |
| All-rounders | Ravindra Jadeja, Cameron Green, Glenn Maxwell |
| Bowlers | Shardul Thakur, Tushar Deshpande, Mohd. Siraj |
| Captain | Ruturaj Gaikwad |
| Vice-captain | Glenn Maxwell |
CSK vs RCB: Winner Prediction
With both teams poised to leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory, after thorough pondering, CSK is expected to emerge victorious in this clash at Chepauk.
![[Watch] Chepauk Gets Ready For Ultimate MS Dhoni vs Virat Kohli IPL 2024 Opener](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1710921995055_Untitled design (5).jpg?type=mq)
.jpg?type=mq "Raina On Dhoni!")
 "Muskaan Bhatt")
