CSK vs RCB – Match NO 8 Prediction, Key Players & Analysis IPL 2025
• Date: March 28, 2025
• Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
• Time: 7:30 PM IST
• Live Streaming: Star Sports, JioCinema
• Match Type: League Stage
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Team Analysis & Squads
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
CSK, one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, is aiming for its sixth title under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad. The team has a strong balance of experienced campaigners and young talent. Their home advantage at Chepauk makes them formidable, as the slow and spin-friendly pitch suits their strengths.
Key Players:
1. Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain) – A consistent performer at the top of the order, Gaikwad has matured into a key player for CSK. His leadership skills will be tested this season.
2. MS Dhoni – The legendary wicket-keeper batsman is expected to play the role of a finisher and mentor for young players.
3. Ravindra Jadeja – A world-class all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball, and his fielding is an added advantage.
4. Sam Curran – The English all-rounder provides stability and aggression in both departments. His ability to handle pressure situations makes him crucial for CSK.
5. Devon Conway – The New Zealand opener offers stability and consistency at the top of the order.
Full Squad:
• Batsmen: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rahul Tripathi, Shaik Rasheed, Andre Siddarth
• Wicket-keepers: MS Dhoni, Devon Conway, Vansh Bedi
• All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Vijay Shankar, Shivam Dube, Deepak Hooda, Sam Curran, Rachin Ravindra, Anshul Kamboj, Ramakrishna Ghosh
• Bowlers: Shreyas Gopal, Noor Ahmad, Jamie Overton, Nathan Ellis, Mukesh Choudhary, Khaleel Ahmed, Gurjapneet Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Matheesha Pathirana
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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
RCB has made a significant change by appointing Rajat Patidar as their new captain, replacing Faf du Plessis. This move signals a fresh start for the franchise as they continue their quest for their maiden IPL title.
Key Players:
1. Virat Kohli – The backbone of RCB’s batting lineup, Kohli’s experience and aggression make him the most valuable asset for the team.
2. Devdutt Padikkal – A young left-handed opener who can provide strong starts and build momentum in the powerplay.
3. Liam Livingstone – A powerful hitter and a handy part-time bowler, Livingstone adds depth to the middle order.
4. Tim David – Known for his finishing skills, David can take on any bowling attack in the death overs.
5. Josh Hazlewood – A disciplined fast bowler with the ability to control runs and take key wickets.
Full Squad:
• Batsmen: Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c)
• Wicket-keepers: Phil Salt
• All-rounders: Liam Livingstone, Tim David, Krunal Pandya
• Bowlers: Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Yash Dayal
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Pitch Report
The MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) is known for its slow and spin-friendly surface. Historically, spinners have played a crucial role at this venue.
• The pitch generally favors batting in the first innings, but as the game progresses, stroke-making becomes difficult due to the slowing nature of the track.
• Spinners and slower bowlers will have a significant impact, especially in the middle overs.
• The average first-innings score at Chepauk in IPL matches is around 165-175.
Best Strategy for Teams:
• Winning the Toss & Batting First: The ideal strategy is to bat first and post a competitive total as chasing under lights can be tricky, especially with spinners coming into play.
• Teams scoring above 170 in the first innings will have a strong chance of winning.
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Weather Report
• Temperature: 28-30°C
• Humidity: High (65-70%)
• Dew Factor: Present (in the second innings)
• Rain Prediction: No significant rainfall expected
Due to high humidity, there will be dew formation in the second innings, which might make it challenging for bowlers to grip the ball. Captains will have to consider this factor before deciding whether to bat or bowl first.
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Head-to-Head Record: CSK vs RCB
• Total Matches Played: 31
• CSK Wins: 21
• RCB Wins: 10
At Chepauk, Chennai:
• Matches Played: 8
• CSK Wins: 7
• RCB Wins: 1
CSK has a dominant record at home against RCB, which gives them a psychological edge heading into the match.

Expected Playing XIs
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) XI:
1. Ruturaj Gaikwad (C)
2. Devon Conway
3. Rahul Tripathi
4. Shivam Dube
5. MS Dhoni (WK)
6. Ravindra Jadeja
7. Sam Curran
8. Ravichandran Ashwin
9. Mukesh Choudhary
10. Matheesha Pathirana
11. Noor Ahmad
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) XI:
1. Phil Salt (WK)
2. Virat Kohli
3. Devdutt Padikkal
4. Rajat Patidar (C)
5. Liam Livingstone
6. Tim David
7. Krunal Pandya
8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
9. Josh Hazlewood
10. Lungi Ngidi
11. Yash Dayal
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Dream11 Fantasy Team Prediction
When selecting a Dream11 team, it’s essential to balance proven performers with in-form players.
Best Fantasy Picks:
Wicket-Keepers:
• MS Dhoni (CSK)
• Phil Salt (RCB)
Batsmen:
• Virat Kohli (RCB)
• Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK)
• Devdutt Padikkal (RCB)
• Devon Conway (CSK)
All-Rounders:
• Ravindra Jadeja (CSK)
• Sam Curran (CSK)
• Liam Livingstone (RCB)
Bowlers:
• Josh Hazlewood (RCB)
• Mukesh Choudhary (CSK)
• Ravichandran Ashwin (CSK)
Captain: Virat Kohli
Vice-Captain: Ravindra Jadeja
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Final Match Prediction
Strengths & Weaknesses:
• CSK’s Strengths:
• Home advantage
• Strong spin attack
• Experienced players like MS Dhoni & Ravindra Jadeja
• RCB’s Strengths:
• Power-packed batting lineup
• In-form key players like Virat Kohli & Liam Livingstone
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Who Will Win?
Considering CSK’s dominance at Chepauk, their experienced spin attack, and RCB’s struggles at this venue in the past, Chennai Super Kings have a slight edge in this match.
Predicted Winner: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) (55% winning chance)
However, if RCB’s batting lineup fires, especially in the powerplay, they can turn the tables. The toss will play a crucial role, with the team batting first having a better chance to win.