Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will lock horns with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 52 of IPL 2025 at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. With RCB just a win away from confirming their playoff berth, the stakes are high. On the other hand, CSK are playing only for pride, having already bowed out of the playoff race. But if there’s one thing you can expect from a Dhoni-led unit, it’s the will to finish strong, regardless of the standings.
RCB have been one of the most consistent sides this season. With seven wins from 10 games and three victories on the trot, including a commanding performance against Punjab Kings, they currently sit second on the table. Rajat Patidar’s captaincy and match-winning contributions have played a vital role in their resurgence.
CSK, meanwhile, have had a season to forget. Just two wins from ten outings have seen them crash out early, but the return of Sam Curran and promising signs from Dewald Brevis offer hope for a spirited finish. Historically, CSK have had the upper hand in this rivalry, winning 21 of the 34 encounters, compared to RCB’s 12.
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However, it was RCB who claimed the spoils earlier this season. Interestingly, both sides are evenly matched at Chinnaswamy, with five wins each. While the points may matter more to RCB, CSK will look to play spoiler in a contest that still holds plenty of intrigue. All eyes will be on key match-ups that could tilt the balance either way.
#1 Khaleel Ahmed vs Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, RCB’s run-machine, is having a stellar IPL 2025 campaign with 443 runs at an average of 63.29. He thrives in the PowerPlay, but Khaleel Ahmed, Delhi’s left-arm speedster, has been a menace with the new ball. In five IPL innings, Kohli has scored 34 runs off Khaleel at a fiery strike rate of 147.82, falling to him just once—a duel to watch early on.
#2 Josh Hazlewood vs Shivam Dube
Shivam Dube, CSK’s leading run-getter this season with 248 runs. Dube’s strength lies in dominating the middle overs, but he’ll face a stiff challenge from Josh Hazlewood, who leads the Purple Cap race with 18 wickets at an average of 17.27. Hazlewood’s control and bounce could disrupt Dube’s rhythm.
#3 Rajat Patidar vs Noor Ahmad
Another crucial face-off will feature Rajat Patidar and Noor Ahmad. The RCB skipper has been particularly brutal against spin, striking at 170.13 this season. Noor, CSK’s top wicket-taker with 15 scalps, will have the tough task of containing Patidar. Though Patidar has taken 13 off 10 balls against the Afghan spinner without losing his wicket, the contest remains finely poised.
