IPL 2025 Match Preview: Can Struggling CSK Bounce Back Against Dominant DC at Chepauk?
Date: April 5, 2025
Time: 3:30 PM IST
Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Match Overview
The Indian Premier League 2025 is heating up quickly, and all eyes are on the much-anticipated clash between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. Just three matches into the tournament, CSK are already under pressure after back-to-back losses, while DC have started their campaign with two dominant victories.
Chennai Super Kings, one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, have found themselves exposed in both departments — batting and bowling. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals look confident and well-balanced, making this an exciting matchup at the iconic Chepauk stadium.
CSK’s Concerns and Squad Dynamics
CSK's strength has traditionally been their bowling, but that department has underperformed so far. Against RCB, the bowlers conceded nearly 200 runs on a slower surface. Their outing against Rajasthan Royals saw them give away 129 runs in the first 12 overs.
In the batting department, CSK are showing signs of dependence on Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is doubtful for the upcoming clash due to fitness concerns. Rachin Ravindra has been one of the few bright spots at the top, but Rahul Tripathi and Shivam Dube are yet to find form. Sam Curran and Vijay Shankar have been shuffled into the XI, indicating the team is still searching for its best combination.
Probable CSK XI:
Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Ruturaj Gaikwad (C)*, Shivam Dube, Sam Curran, Vijay Shankar, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (WK), Noor Ahmad, Matheesha Pathirana, Khaleel Ahmed
(*Subject to fitness)
DC’s Form and Tactical Edge
Delhi Capitals have started IPL 2025 with two back-to-back wins. In the first match, their middle order rescued the team after a top-order collapse. In the second, the top order dominated and sealed a convincing win against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
With a bowling attack comprising Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Vipraj Nigam, DC are well-equipped to exploit Chepauk's traditionally spin-friendly conditions. The team’s depth and balance could prove to be a serious threat to a struggling CSK side.
Probable DC XI:
Jake Fraser-McGurk, Faf du Plessis, Abishek Porel, KL Rahul (WK), Axar Patel (C), Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohit Sharma, Mukesh Kumar
Pitch and Conditions
The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai is known for its slow and turning tracks, especially in afternoon games. While RCB pacers extracted bounce in the last match here, this game is expected to be dominated by spin due to the dry afternoon conditions.
Tactical Insights
For CSK:
If Ruturaj Gaikwad is unavailable, the leadership and opening responsibilities could shift. Rahul Tripathi may be better utilized in the middle overs to counter Kuldeep Yadav, against whom he strikes at 200.
For DC:
Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad will be key against the likes of Faf du Plessis, whom he has dismissed three times in just ten deliveries. Conditions will also bring Axar Patel into greater play against CSK’s left-handers.
Key Statistics
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CSK have won each of their last seven matches against Delhi Capitals at Chepauk.
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Delhi Capitals have won their opening two matches for only the fifth time in IPL history.
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CSK’s PowerPlay run rate (7.44) is the lowest among all teams in IPL 2025, significantly below the season average of 9.58.
Quotes from the Camp
Kuldeep Yadav on Noor Ahmad:
“He is bowling really well. He has a lovely wrong’un and with that kind of pace, it’s very difficult to pick, especially in Chennai.”
Mike Hussey on CSK’s Leadership Scenario:
“I haven’t thought about it too much. I’m sure Fleming and Rutu have, but if he’s not available, one of the young guys behind the stumps might step up. He’s got some experience in that role.”
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