The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is heating up as the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) prepare to face the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on May 3 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This match is particularly significant following RCB’s historic 50-run victory over CSK at Chepauk earlier this season, ending a 17-year winless streak at the venue.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Chepauk pitch is known for favoring spinners, especially as the game progresses. The average first innings score here is around 159, and chasing can be challenging due to the pitch slowing down. Teams winning the toss often opt to bat first to capitalize on the fresher pitch conditions.
Weather forecasts predict hot and humid conditions with temperatures hovering around 33°C in the evening and no chance of rain, ensuring a full match.
Team Form and Key Players
Chennai Super Kings (CSK):
CSK, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, have had a mixed start to the season. Rachin Ravindra has been a standout performer, scoring an unbeaten 65 in their opening match. Noor Ahmad’s spin bowling has also been impressive, taking 4 wickets for just 18 runs against Mumbai Indians. The team relies heavily on their spin-friendly attack and middle-order depth to dominate at home.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB):
RCB, under Virat Kohli’s leadership, have shown strong form. Phil Salt and Rajat Patidar have been instrumental in their batting lineup, with Patidar scoring a crucial 50 in their previous encounter against CSK. Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar have led the bowling attack effectively, keeping things tight and picking up early wickets.
Dream11 Fantasy Team Picks
Wicketkeeper:
- MS Dhoni (CSK)
Batsmen:
- Virat Kohli (RCB)
- Rachin Ravindra (CSK)
- Rajat Patidar (RCB)
- Shivam Dube (CSK)
All-rounders:
- Ravindra Jadeja (CSK)
- Liam Livingstone (RCB)
Bowlers:
- Josh Hazlewood (RCB)
- Noor Ahmad (CSK)
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar (RCB)
- Matheesha Pathirana (CSK)
Captain: Rachin Ravindra
Vice-Captain: Virat Kohli
Match Prediction
While RCB broke their long-standing jinx at Chepauk earlier this season, CSK will be eager to reclaim their dominance at home. Given the spin-friendly conditions and CSK’s depth in bowling, they might have the edge. However, if RCB’s top order fires again, they could pose a significant challenge.