The stage is set for an epic clash as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lock horns at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Friday. All eyes will be on two stalwarts of Indian cricket – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli – as they renew their rivalry in the IPL 2025.
While Dhoni has stepped away from international cricket, focusing solely on the IPL, Kohli continues to dominate ODIs and Tests. The two legends may no longer lead their sides, but their presence remains magnetic.
‘Always a Clash to Look Forward To’
CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad is relishing the opportunity to face Kohli once again.
Looking forward to playing against RCB, especially with Rajat (Patidar) as the new captain. And whenever Virat Kohli is in the opposition, it’s always a clash to look forward to. He’s been doing it for a really long time, consistently for RCB and the country.
Gaikwad said
CSK’s five-time title-winning experience will be a challenge for RCB, who have managed just one win at the Chidambaram Stadium since 2007. With Gaikwad’s side coming off a thrilling victory over Mumbai Indians, the momentum is firmly with the defending champions.
RCB's Confidence High
On the other hand, RCB's new captain Rajat Patidar led his team to a convincing win over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders. RCB's mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik believes the team is in a good place.
The way we are structuring our team, the way we are playing, makes this game very exciting for us. We’re extremely confident in our abilities. Past records are just numbers. This is a fresh group of players, and they are eager to make an impact.
Karthik said
Kohli, who struck an unbeaten 59 in RCB's opening match, remains a key figure. Karthik acknowledged the star batter's relentless drive.
Virat is a special player. The hunger he brings every season is remarkable. We expect nothing less from him.
Karthik said
The Dhoni Factor
Despite not getting a chance to bat in CSK's opener, Dhoni’s influence was undeniable. His lightning-quick stumping of Mumbai Indians' Suryakumar Yadav was a game-changer. CSK fans will be hoping for more moments of magic from their iconic captain.
Dhoni has always had a knack for delivering when it matters most. His presence itself can tilt the scales.
Gaikwad added
Spin to Win?
A crucial battle to watch will be how RCB’s batters handle CSK’s formidable spin trio of Noor Ahmad, Ravindra Jadeja, and Ravichandran Ashwin. The slow-turning Chepauk pitch is tailor-made for spinners, and Dhoni will undoubtedly use that to his advantage.
With both teams brimming with talent and eager to prove a point, Friday’s Southern derby promises high-voltage action. For cricket fans, it’s not just another IPL match – it’s Dhoni vs Kohli.
Probable Playing XIs:
Chennai Super Kings: Rachin Ravindra, Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt), Rahul Tripathi, Deepak Hooda, Shivam Dube, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), R. Ashwin, Nathan Ellis, Noor Ahmad.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (capt), Devdutt Padikkal, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Rasikh Salam, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal.
