KL Rahul has embraced a new and attacking philosophy for white-ball cricket, which has worked wonders in reviving his form while evoking some lighthearted banter on the sidelines. After his match-winning performance for the Delhi Capitals (DC) against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rahul talked about his new strategy for T20 cricket, saying he knows he needs to change with the times of modern cricket.

The star India wicket keeper batter, who had taken paternity leave for DC's opener, made a dramatic comeback by hitting 77 runs off 51 balls, with six boundaries and three sixes. The Delhi Capitals, who acquired him for ₹14 crore, continue to have their spotless record in IPL 2025. After the game, Rahul spoke about how he had earlier been too concerned about playing safe and carrying the game deep, a ploy that used to cost him momentum. Yet now he wants to play with freedom, aggression, and purpose, concentrating on applying pressure to the opposition right from the beginning.

Also Read: IPL 2025: KKR vs LSG – Eden Gardens stadium stats and Preview

In a post-match interaction organized by the IPL, Rahul had a humorous exchange with DC mentor and former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen. Rahul reminded Pietersen of an old tweet where he criticized his slow batting, comparing it to watching paint dry. Pietersen, initially taken aback, laughed it off and appreciated Rahul’s transformation. "Well, I’m glad you’ve changed your game," he said.

"It's better than watching the paint on the wall dry,"

DC star KL Rahul reminded his side's mentor Kevin Pietersen about his old tweet calling his batting slow.#KLRahul #CSKvDC #IPL2025https://t.co/jtamMUxJhm

— India Today Sports (@ITGDsports) April 6, 2025

Watch the video here;

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by IPL (@iplt20)

Back to Enjoying Cricket: KL Rahul 

Rahul's new approach is born out of an epiphany — contemporary T20 cricket rewards boundary-hitters. "Somewhere along the way, I lost the enjoyment of hitting sixes and boundaries. I kept thinking about taking the game deep. But now I know the team that hits more boundaries tends to win," he explained. Rahul's aim now is straightforward: spot the ball, hit the ball, and have fun.

Also Read: IPL 2025: KKR vs LSG - A Head to Head breakdown

Looking back on his innings against CSK, Rahul conceded that he struggled with timing at first. "In the middle, I felt I left 15-20 runs. But once I got one from the middle of the bat, I found rhythm," he said. This mental shift seems to be working for Rahul as well as for DC, who are still in command of IPL 2025.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were handed a disappointing 25-run loss by the Delhi Capitals (DC) in their IPL 2025 encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Needing 184, CSK's batting was as lackluster as the home crowd had feared. Wickets fell in quick succession, and although MS Dhoni attempted to steady the ship, his defensive game raised eyebrows as the asking rate kept climbing out of their reach.

Citing this former India cricketer and commentator, Aakash Chopra did not hesitate to criticize CSK's approach in the chase. In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra asked if the team truly tried to go for the target after the pressure started mounting. He was displeased, especially with Dhoni, and noted that singles and defensive shots were not enough when the game demanded aggressive strokeplay. His comments concentrated on the lack of intent from a team that is famous for their aggressive style of cricket. Chopra's rant particularly singled out Dhoni's 30 off 26 balls as too conservative for a finisher of his legendary stature. For the cricketer-turned-commentator, the top-order collapse was a concern, but more was expected of Dhoni to turn the game around in a late turnabout. He reminded people that Dhoni's reputation as the "greatest finisher of all time" does come with some expectations, and in this case, the approach left many, including himself, perplexed.

ALSO READ:IPL 2025 MI vs RCB : Player battles to watch out

Did you even try to chase?: Aakash Chopra

Chopra's comment has stirred eyebrows among observers as well as fans. Some agree with him, believing that CSK missed their opportunity by not being so aggressive in the pursuit. They contend that Dhoni, with his huge experience, had the choice of taking more strategic risks to keep scoring and piling pressure on the opposition.

"Chennai, what did you do? When the run chase started, wickets were falling as though it was a joke. I have not seen a more insipid performance than this from you. You probably thought after the 10th over that you didn't want to chase. Did you even try to chase? The required run rate was mounting, and you were defending and taking singles," the former India opener said.

Meanwhile, there are those Dhoni supporters who believe the criticism is not warranted, noting that the platform was already wobbly prior to Dhoni's entry. With wickets falling at frequent intervals, they believe Dhoni had no option other than to play cautiously. Whatever, Chopra's remarks have certainly given fire to the controversy surrounding CSK strategy and Dhoni's role in this season of IPL.

The historic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai witnessed a high-octane encounter as the Delhi Capitals (DC) continued their winning streak in IPL 2025, beating Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 25 runs in Match 17. While DC appeared clinical in all departments, CSK could not find their grip during the entire match and worried fans with their run of form and strategy.

Match Highlights:

Delhi Capitals Innings: 

Having decided to bat first, DC began well with openers building a strong platform. KL Rahul once again justified why he is one of the most reliable batters in the tournament, playing a well-timed 77 off 51 balls. His knock was a mix of beautiful boundaries and prudent risks.

Abishek Porel provided DC with an early boost with a rapid 33 off 20 balls, and Tristan Stubbs added the finishing touches, not out on 24 off 12 balls. Though there were some hiccups in the middle overs, DC closed well at 183/6 in their 20 overs.

Hat-Trick of Wins ✅
Memorable win at Chepauk after 1⃣5⃣ years ✅@DelhiCapitals cap off a commanding 2⃣5⃣-run victory over #CSK 🥳

Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/5jtlxucq9j #TATAIPL | #CSKvDC pic.twitter.com/D9oWDI4hN2

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 5, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025: MS Dhoni to retire today? Social Media erupts as legend's parents make unusual appearance during CSK vs DC game

Chennai Super Kings Innings: 

CSK's pursuit got off to a rocky start, losing both openers, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway, early in the powerplay. The initial pressure and steady bowling by DC never allowed CSK to get into the chase.

Vijay Shankar stood firm with a gritty 53 off 41 balls, attempting to resurrect the innings. But the required rate continued to rise, and boundaries became scarce in the middle period. MS Dhoni, who came in at No. 7, scored a run-a-ball 23 but had no backup at the other end as CSK finished their innings at 158/5, 25 runs short.

KL Rahul’s classy knock and a disciplined bowling effort seal a historic win for the Capitals, their first at Chepauk in 15 years! 🔥💙#IPLonJioStar 👉 #PBKSvRR | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi & JioHotstar pic.twitter.com/YCLceIryrK

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 5, 2025

Also Read: Watch: Rajasthan Royals share emotional video tributing Yuzvendra Chahal ahead of their clash against Punjab Kings

Post-Match Reactions - CSK vs DC

• Mitchell Starc (DC): "First away game and a good game. There was some pace on the pitch, a touch two-paced, but we changed well. Everyone contributed - important in T20s."
• Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK Captain): "Powerplay still keeps on hurting us with bat and ball. We keep on playing catch-up. We need to be more proactive and positive in the future."

Follow for more: https://www.cricketwinner.com/

• KL Rahul (Player of the Match): "Delighted to open again. I settled into the role and enjoyed a fine stand with Porel. That helped put the tone right and relieve pressure early on."
• Axar Patel (DC Captain): "Three consecutive wins feels fantastic. Everyone's chipping in. I did not bowl because of a small finger injury, conserving myself for the long season. Still, we need to sort out our fielding—dropped chances may bite us later."

Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Match Scorecard

Delhi Capitals - 183/6(20)

Chennai Super Kings - 158/5 (20)

MS Dhoni’s parents, Pan Singh Dhoni and Devaki Devi, made a rare appearance at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday during the CSK vs. DC IPL 2025 match. This was their first time watching a CSK game live at the venue since Dhoni joined the franchise in 2008. His wife, Sakshi, and daughter, Ziva, were also present, as they often are during home games.

There were rumors going around before the match that Dhoni could captain CSK, as there were doubts over regular skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad's fitness. Gaikwad had suffered an elbow blow in the last match against Rajasthan Royals. All such speculations were, however, laid to rest when Gaikwad emerged for the toss. "My elbow is fine, ready to go," Gaikwad assured.

Also Read: IPL 2025: SRH vs GT – Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket stadium stats and status preview

MS Dhoni retiring?

The presence of Dhoni’s entire family at the stadium sparked fresh rumors online about a possible retirement announcement. The 43-year-old’s future in the IPL has been a topic of debate, especially after he came in to bat at No. 9 in the recent game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a move that didn’t sit well with many fans.

Speaking to doubts regarding Dhoni’s batting order and fitness, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming remarked that Dhoni plays a deliberate role. “It's a matter of time. MS gauges that. His knees aren't what they used to be. He can't bat at full intensity for 10 overs, or whatever, in a professional game. So he factors when he should come in based on the match,” Fleming said. “If the game is in a state of uncertainty, then he will come in to keep the game evolving earlier.”

Also Read: NZ vs Pak: Floodlights at Bay Oval go off mid-match during third ODI

Though the internet is by storm with theories of retirement, Dhoni still continues to play a part behind the stumps. The remainder of IPL 2025 will have fans watching closely to see if the 2025 season is, indeed, the end of an era.

MS Dhoni May Captain CSK Again as Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Injury Raises Doubts

There is a likelihood that legendary cricketer MS Dhoni can captain Chennai Super Kings (CSK) once again when the team plays against Delhi Capitals this Saturday at Chepauk Stadium. This is possible following the injury suffered by current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad during CSK's last game against Rajasthan Royals.

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Injury Raises Doubts

Gaikwad was struck by a delivery from teammate Tushar Deshpande while playing. The ball came in at a good length and unexpectedly bounced and hit Gaikwad on the arm. Despite batting on after medical attention, he has not practiced since.

Speaking to the media, CSK batting coach Mike Hussey said the team will take a final decision based on how Gaikwad performs during the training session. “It’s still a bit painful, but it’s getting better each day,” Hussey said. “We’re hopeful that he’ll be fine for the match tomorrow.”

🚨 CAPTAIN MS DHONI OF CSK 🚨

- MS Dhoni is likely to lead the CSK team tomorrow as Ruturaj Gaikwad's participation is doubtful vs RR. (Express Sports). pic.twitter.com/aDGTDmod1y

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) April 4, 2025

If Gaikwad is not available to play, CSK might revert to MS Dhoni as captain. With no obvious backup captaincy option, Dhoni, with years of experience and having led the team to several IPL titles in the past, might be the obvious choice. Asked about the captaincy debacle, Hussey would not respond directly but seemed to suggest that Dhoni might take over.

ALSO READ:Yashasvi Jaiswal Kicked Ajinkya Rahane's Kitbag, there is friction among senior player: Reports

We hadn't considered it that much so far. Coach Stephen Fleming and Rutu will surely have considered that," said Hussey. He also brought up the potential for a "young guy behind the stumps," obviously addressing Dhoni but not using his name.Aside from the issue of captaincy, Gaikwad's potential absence would also affect CSK's batting. In this IPL season so far, CSK's top order has been poor, and Gaikwad has been one of their better batsmen at No. 3. If he doesn't play, CSK could be forced to make a number of changes to their playing XI and overseas player lineup.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will play against  Delhi Capitals(DC) in the seventeenth match of IPL 2025 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Chennai just missed the playoffs, ending in fifth place, while Delhi Capitals (DC) had a tough season last year, winning only seven out of 14 games and finishing sixth.

Impact Players: Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Noor Ahmed: A talented Afghanistan spinner who could be a game-changer when bowling second, especially on spin-friendly pitch. He has 24 wickets in 23 IPL games. In the last match against RR, he showed his magical spin and took four wickets conceding 28 runs in 4 overs.

Deepak Hooda: A classic all-rounder from India who can make the batting depth for his team needs and step in as an impact sub if CSK loses early wickets.  In the last match against MI, he scored 3 runs in 5 balls.

Rahul Tripathi: A very talented batter from SRH. If, CSK loses early wickets while batting first or needs big hits during a run chase. In the last match against RR, he scored 23 runs in 19 balls.

Jamie Overton: The English pacer brings all-round skills and could be used to strengthen the batting in the first innings or bowl a few overs later. In the last match against RR, he scored 11 runs in 4 balls.

Impact Players: Delhi Capitals (DC)

Sameer Rizvi: A very talented batter from Delhi Capitals. If, DC loses early wickets while batting first or needs big hits during a run chase.


Karun Nair: A consistent classic batter, if DC needs extra batting support after early wickets or replaces a bowler in the second innings.


Mohit Sharma: An experienced pacer with 124 IPL wickets, he can be the best useful substitute when bowling second, especially if the pitch helps fast bowlers. In the last match against SRH, he bowled three overs and took 1 wicket conceding of 28 runs.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs. Delhi Capitals (DC) match is set to take place on April 5, 2025, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) in Chennai. Featured as a toss-up for IPL 2025, the iconic venue, a venue center-financier, will be a crucial battleground as both teams aim for a strong start in IPL 2025.

Match Details:

• Date: April 05, 2025
• Time: 03:30 PM IST
• Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
• Win % Batting First: 58%
• Win % Bowling First: 41%

Also read:-Watch: KKR Stars Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer and Dwayne Bravo celebrate victory with epic dance moves!

Weather and Pitch Conditions:

Weather: 

• The weather is expected to be warm and humid, with temperatures hovering around 30-32°C.
• 51% (Humidity)
• 25 % rain is predicted. Mostly cloudy.
• Light wind breeze with no significant impact on gameplay.

Pitch: 

• The Chepauk surface traditionally favors spinners, offering significant turn as the match progresses.
• The pitch tends to become very slow and spin-friendly as the game moves forward.
• Batters often have to face difficulties in the second innings as the pitch becomes considerably dry.
• Average Score Batting First in the last Season: 156
• Average Score Batting Second in the last Season: 182
• Wins Batting First in the last Five games: 2
• Wins Batting Second in the last Five games: 3

Also read: LSG VS MI : Match 16 Weather and Pitch Report – IPL 2025

Venue Records: MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk), Chennai

• Highest Team Total: 246/5 by Chennai Super Kings against Rajasthan Royals in 2010. ​
• Lowest Team Total: 70 all out by Royal Challengers Bangalore against Chennai Super Kings in 2019.
• Average First Innings Score: Approximately 164 runs

The IPL 2025 Match 17 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals (DC) will happen on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 3:30 PM IST in the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. In this high-stakes encounter, the five-time winner CSK, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, will take on a completely new DC team headed by Axar Patel. Both teams are very much eager to be the champions of the stage. CSK wants to win on the home pitch while expanding their play, and DC are also eager to get back on the positive waves after they have started the game poorly in the case of IPL 2025.

Chepauk stadium stats and Records 

The M.A. Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) has been a fortress for CSK, winning 52 out of 76 matches played there. The slow and low nature of the pitch has generally helped the bowlers, particularly the spinners, and has made scoring runs difficult in such conditions.

• Total Matches: 87
• Batting 1st Won: 50
• Batting 2nd Won: 37
• Highest Total: 246/5 (CSK vs RR, 2010)
• Lowest Total: 70 all out (RCB vs CSK, 2019)
• Highest Run-chase: 213/4 in 19.3 overs (LSG vs CSK, 2024)
• Lowest Total Defended: 126/8 (RCB vs CSK, 2008)
• Average 1st Innings Score: 164
• Average 2nd Innings Score: 150

Also Read: IPL 2025: CSK vs DC – Chepauk stadium stats and status preview

Weather and Pitch Report

Chennai will be hot and humid, with temperatures around 32-34°C in the afternoon and 29-30°C by evening. The moisture content in the air of 70-80% could be troublesome, and in the nighttime, the dew formation would certainly give more help to the team batting second.

The Chepauk pitch of the match will go towards the spin as the game goes on. Anything around the total of 160-170 will be a match-winner in the first inning; anything beyond the set limit would be a tough chase.

CSK vs DC Match Preview 

CSK has the backing of an experienced and more or less home-grown squad, with its great strength being the presence of spinning talents and the terrific batting order. The three top players who are in focus for the batting department are named as MS Dhoni, Shivam Dube, and Ruturaj Gaikwad; the leads in the spin game will be taken by Jadeja and Ashwin.

Also Read: Rinku Singh picks his favourite and it's all about passion!

The DC team has a wide variety of players, including hard-hitting batters such as KL Rahul and Faf du Plessis, and like Mitchell Starc, who is a world-class pacer and who can utilise the early movement in a powerplay. The DC's problem will be the change of mind to get used to the spinners who challenge them in conditions at the Chepauk pitch.

IPL 2025: CSK vs DC – Player Battles to Watch Out For

Match Details – IPL 2025

• Match: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Delhi Capitals (DC)
• Date: 4th April 2025 (Friday)
• Time: 3:30 PM IST
• Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
• Live Streaming: JioStar & Star Sports Network

Key Player Fights

Ruturaj Gaikwad vs. Mitchell Starc
CSK's reliable opener Ruturaj Gaikwad will have a big task in hand against DC's pace ace Mitchell Starc. If Starc destroys him early, DC will get the upper hand.
KL Rahul vs. Ravindra Jadeja
DC's veteran batter KL Rahul will try to stabilize the innings, but CSK's all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja can trouble him with his spin in Chennai conditions.
Shivam Dube vs. Kuldeep Yadav
CSK big-hitter Shivam Dube will try to tackle spinners, but DC wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav will attempt to outsmart him with his spin and variations.
MS Dhoni vs. Mukesh Kumar
CSK icon MS Dhoni is a master finisher, but DC paceman Mukesh Kumar has an ability to bowl decisive overs at the end.

ALSO READ:IPL 2025: CSK vs DC Prediction– Match 17, Who will win today?

Faf du Plessis vs. Ravichandran Ashwin
DC's Faf du Plessis will attempt to boss the powerplay, but CSK's experienced Ravichandran Ashwin can trouble him with his intelligent off-spin.
Jake Fraser-McGurk vs. Khaleel Ahmed
DC's firebrand opener Jake Fraser-McGurk will look to hit hard in the powerplay, but CSK pacer Khaleel Ahmed can get the better of him with swing and accuracy.

Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Predicted Playing XI

Delhi Capitals Playing XI

Jake Fraser McGurk, Faf Du Plessis, Abhishek Porel, KL Rahul, Tristin Stubbs, Axar Patel, Vipraj, Nigam Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Mohit Sharma,Impact Player: Sameer Rizvi

Chennai Super Kings Playing XI

Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi/ Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Vijay Shankar, Shivam Dube, Ravinzdra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Jamie Overton/ Anshul Kamboj, Ravichandran Ashwin, Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmed,Impact Player: Matheesha Pathirana

CSK are not happy starters this season. Going by the last two games and the batting in all three so far they look far from convincing. CSK are generally a side that doesn't do much tinkering and gives their ideas a long run. Is that the right way to go now though with things likely to get late on a strategy that does not seem to be working. Breaking it down, can they bring in Devon Conway? Is Ruturaj Gaikwad at three the right choice after so many good seasons as an opener? What about Rahul Tripathi who does not look convincing against pace? The line-up overall does not have much intent in it with players happy to tap it around as though it were still 2015.

The finishers too appear blunt. Ravindra Jadeja, a proper bat, clearly seems to be done with finishing and struggles to force the pace against spin. MS Dhoni, batting low down the order showed glimpses but how much does he have to offer down the order? With the ball though there are some bright spots. Khaleel and Noor Ahmed are saving the side well, Ravichandran Ashwin, poor in the powerplay so far, was tactically at his best later on plotting the downfall of a rampaging Nitish Rana. Ravindra Jadeja has been unlucky with catches put down off his bowling but Pathirana has come in well to strengthen CSK in the death.

The Delhi Capitals are definitely a more confident side coming in. They beat Chennai last season in a similar stage of the tournament. Mitchell Starc was at his best in the previous game and will be crucial once more with the new-ball. Faf Du Plessis knows Chennai well and Delhi will also know that their spinners are more than capable of making an impact of the track which will aid spin as the ball gets older.

CSK vs DC Match Details

Date: April 5th, 2025

Time:  3:30 PM IST

Venue: Chennai

CSK vs DC Weather Report

A dry and sweaty afternoon looks likely with the summer building up and temperatures rising in Chennai.

Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Pitch Report

Average Score Batting First in the last Season: 156

Average Score Batting Second in the last Season: 182

Wins Batting First in the last Five games: 2

Wins Batting Second in the last Five games: 3

A day game could see a very slow and sluggish pitch. Dew isn't likely to play a part and batting first could be a better way to start with the ball likely to group more as the game goes on.

See Also: CSK struggle to stay up to date in T20 Cricket

CSK vs DC Head to Head

Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Predicted Playing XI

Delhi Capitals Playing XI

Jake Fraser McGurk, Faf Du Plessis, Abhishek Porel, KL Rahul, Tristin Stubbs, Axar Patel, Vipraj, Nigam Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Mohit Sharma

Impact Player: Sameer Rizvi

Chennai Super Kings Playing XI

Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi/ Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Vijay Shankar, Shivam Dube, Ravinzdra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Jamie Overton/ Anshul Kamboj, Ravichandran Ashwin, Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmed

Impact Player: Matheesha Pathirana

Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Players to Watch

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin's comeback to CSK has not been so good. He has been poor in the powerplay and is doing decently in the middle-overs but not yet up to his mark. He has a lot to do if he is to earn respect again with his performances not looking very presentable at the moment.

Mitchell Starc

Starc has the CSK opening pair in his sites. They have looked susceptible to the new-ball with Rahul Tripathi in particular struggling and that is where DC will hope Starc can breakthrough and exploit the gaps in CSK's unit.

Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Match Tips

Delhi Capitals walk in favorites with CSK struggling to find intent and rhythm in the season so far.

Match Prediction: Delhi Capitals Will Win the Match