Winning or losing is all part of cricket. But how a team performs, how a team outclasses, that matters the most at the end of the day. Last night (March 28), at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Chennai Super Kings despite a stormy innings by MS Dhoni, who bagged 30 runs by playing only 16 balls. 

Read More: IPL 2025, Match 9: GT vs MI Dream11 Top Captain And Vice-captain Choices

It could be a radiant moment for Mahi fans if Chennai Super Kings were in a position to come first in. Dhoni, who single-handedly finished numerous matches with style throughout his well-decorated career, came into the crease as a number 9 batter the previous night. It was hard to witness Dhoni batting at number 9. 

Former cricketer and a former teammate of MS Dhoni, Virender Sehwag, could not stop himself from trolling the former India and CSK skipper. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who is now 43, has made a couple of lightning-fast stumpings in the IPL 2025 already, one against RCB. When CSK lost 6 wickets only for 80 runs while chasing RCB's 196, proving everyone wrong, it was Ravichandran Ashwin who came out of the dressing room to bat before MS Dhoni at number 8. Ashwin, with only 11 runs, went back to the pavilion, and then Dhoni stepped in as the number 9 batter. 

After the RCB vs CSK match, Virender Sehwag said during an interaction session, 'Didn't he come too early? It was the 16th over of the match. Naturally, he batted during the 19th or 20th over'. It seems that a question transcends many other questions related to the match: 'Should Dhoni now retire?'

Batting first, Royal Challengers Bengaluru scored 196 for 7 wickets, where the skipper Rajat Patidar himself played a half-century innings (51 runs off 32 balls). Virat Kohli (31 runs, 30 balls) played an anchor role at the top order to solidify the innings, and Phil Salt faced 16 balls to play a quick 32-run innings. At the lower middle order, the Australian all-rounder Tim David (22 runs against 8 balls) was the catalyst to push the total to 196 runs by smashing a hat trick of over boundaries. The Afghan spin wizard took 3 wickets for the Chennai Super Kings. 

On the contrary, it was a series of comings and goings for CSK's top and middle order batters except Rachin Ravindra, who played 31 balls and scored 41 runs. After Ravindra, MS Dhoni was the second top run getter with an unbeaten 30 runs for the team. Losing wickets at regular intervals spread CSK thin to score 146/8 in 20 overs and allowed RCB to get a 50-run win. 

Dhoni deserve all this trolling

If he can't bat then he should retire. Sending Ashwin ahead of him when his is heading towards a most humiliating defeat against your rival is shameful move. #CSKvsRCB pic.twitter.com/2i2LbolSCb

— 👑Che_ಕೃಷ್ಣ🇮🇳💛❤️ (@ChekrishnaCk) March 29, 2025

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Set to Return for RCB Against CSK match

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Chennai Super Kings in the eighth match of IPL 2025 on Friday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. RCB made a strong start to their campaign, with Rajat Patidar guiding them to a seven-wicket win over KKR in the opening game. Now, as they get ready for a big clash against CSK, let’s look at their possible playing XI.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Titans Match 9 

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Fit and Ready to Play

Experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar missed the first match due to a minor injury, but he has now recovered and is available for selection against CSK. RCB’s latest social media update suggests that Bhuvneshwar is likely to play in this important match. If he returns, the team might have to drop either Yash Dayal or Rasikh Salam from the playing XI. 

🚨 GOOD NEWS FOR RCB FANS 🚨

- Dinesh Karthik confirms that Bhuvneshwar Kumar is fit and there is no fitness concern with him. (Sportstar). pic.twitter.com/QMFeFqY0GO

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) March 27, 2025

Both bowlers took one wicket each in the last game against KKR. However, Dayal was more economical, conceding only 25 runs, while Rasikh gave away 35. Since Dayal is RCB’s only left-arm pacer and was one of the few uncapped players they retained before the mega auction, the team might prefer him over Rasikh.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) face off against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 8 of the IPL 2025 season on March 28 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. The electric RCB batting order goes head-to-head against the strategic genius that is CSK, all of this garnished with the roaring home crowd at Chepauk Stadium. It is worth noting that RCB’s Rajat Patidar-led team has the momentum and is geared up to take on the defending champions.

Also Read: CSK vs RCB IPL 2025: 3 key players to watch

RCB beat Kolkata Knight Riders in their previous IPL 2025 match by 11 runs. After restricting KKR to 171, the RCB posted 182/7 on the scoreboard, thanks to Kohli’s magnificent 77 off 49 and Salt’s 59 off 38. This win strengthens RCB’s resolve to challenge CSK’s Ruturaj Gaikwad and MS Dhoni. Can RCB overcome CSK’s Chepauk dominance, or will the Yellow Army prevail? A gripping battle awaits!

RCB Predicted Playing 11

• Phil Salt (wk)
• Virat Kohli
• Rajat Patidar (C)
• Liam Livingstone
• Jitesh Sharma
• Rasikh Salam
• D PadIkkal (Impact)
• Krunal Pandya
• Suyash Sharma
• Josh Hazlewood
• Yash Dayal

Also Read: CSK playing 11 vs RCB IPL 2025 match 8

With this win under their belt, RCB’s batting is further strengthened by Tim David and Krunal Pandya. While Krunal’s spin will be handy on Chepauk’s slow surface, Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, and Suyash Sharma's fast bowling will look to counterattack CSK’s batting.

RCB mounts the final boss battle with Ruturaj Gaikwad’s CSK. Can they finally end CSK's Clephauk stronghold, or will the yellow army come out triumphant?

Shane Watson, the former Australian all-rounder, has suggested that Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ought to be very careful ahead of their clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Chepauk during IPL 2025. He is of the opinion that, while RCB walked away with a comfortable victory over Kolkata Knight Riders, it is nothing compared to the harder tackle awaiting them at Chennai.

“It’s going to be a huge challenge for RCB to go to Chepauk, especially with how difficult the bowlers tend to make it for CSK. RCB will probably have to make changes to their team in order to meet CSK's demands. But do not get me wrong – Chepauk is a fortress,” said Watson.

Watson, who has represented CSK and RCB, noted that the finest feature of Chennai is the abundance of spinners. "CSK’s entire setup is built around playing well in Chennai. Just watch the three spinners who steamrolled MI in their opening game – Ashwin, Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad. On that pitch, they are going to be a real handful." He also commended Noor Ahmad for his impressive performance during his CSK debut, remarking that this will certainly raise the morale of the team by providing another reliable wicket-taker.

Ex-CSK Star Warns RCB Ahead Of IPL 2025 Clash: "Make No Mistake..." #CSKvRCB #IPL2025 https://t.co/RULCCMfyUS

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) March 27, 2025

Also Read: New Zealand captain out of Pakistan ODIs

In the meantime, Watson noticed the difficulties in the spinning department of the Rajasthan Royals and pointed out the absence of quality options against KKR. He believes that spin will play a crucial role in this season’s IPL, especially at venues like Chepauk, where teams like CSK thrive.  

With RCB heading into this challenging encounter, all eyes will be on how they adapt to the spin-friendly conditions in Chennai.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru reminded us why sports are so unpredictable and thrilling. In a jaw-dropping turn of events, RCB, led by Faf du Plessis, made an incredible run to the playoffs by stringing together six consecutive wins. Their most remarkable feat was ending the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a must-win IPL 2024 league game at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on May 18. With a phenomenal batting display, RCB posted 218 runs and defended their target by 27 runs, effectively stopping CSK from making it to the playoffs.

Miraculous Run to Playoffs

RCB orchestrated what might be the greatest comeback in the history of the Indian Premier League by winning six consecutive matches to secure a spot in the IPL 2024 playoffs. Led by Faf du Plessis, RCB defeated Chennai Super Kings by 27 runs in a virtual eliminator at their home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. They will now compete in the IPL 2024 Eliminator.

From managing only one win in their first eight matches to clinching seven victories in their final 14 games, RCB never lost the unwavering support of their fans. The franchise dedicated this historic win to their loyal supporters, the 12th Man Army, who stood by the team through thick and thin.

Match Build-Up

The match between RCB and CSK was highly anticipated, with significant stakes for both teams. RCB needed a victory to secure a playoff spot, while CSK aimed to defend their title by qualifying for the playoffs. The weather added an element of unpredictability, with rain threatening to delay the game. However, the excellent drainage system at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium ensured the match started on time despite a brief shower before the toss.

See Also: Is it the end for Dhoni? Looking at the memorable IPL journey

RCB’s Batting Performance

Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli set the tone for RCB with a stellar opening partnership. Du Plessis initially struggled, but Kohli was aggressive from the start. After Kohli’s dismissal, Faf du Plessis took charge, allowing Rajat Patidar to settle in at No. 3. Unfortunately, du Plessis was run out bizarrely when Mitchell Santner’s fingertips deflected a straight drive onto the stumps. Despite this setback, Patidar and Cameron Green forged a crucial partnership, adding 71 runs in just 28 balls. Their efforts were instrumental in pushing RCB’s total to a formidable 218.

Virat Kohli’s Record-Breaking Innings

Kohli’s innings were nothing short of spectacular. He scored 47 off 29 balls, including four sixes and three boundaries, bringing his sixes tally for the season to 35. His fearless batting and milestone of becoming the first player to score 3000 runs at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium energized the team and the fans.

CSK’s Struggles in the Chase

CSK’s chase got off to a shaky start with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s early dismissal for a duck. Shivam Dube, one of their key batters, also struggled, managing only seven off 15 balls. Despite these setbacks, CSK posted 58 for 2 in the powerplay but lost momentum in the middle overs, scoring just 71 runs and losing four wickets.

MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja’s spirited partnership provided a glimmer of hope for CSK. Coming together at 129 for 6, they added 61 runs in just 26 balls, bringing CSK close to the target. Dhoni’s six off the first ball of the final over sent waves of excitement through the stadium. However, Yash Dayal’s next delivery removed Dhoni, leaving Jadeja with too much to do.

Match Analysis

Several key moments and decisions shaped the outcome of this match. Kohli and du Plessis’s opening partnership laid a solid foundation, while the middle-order contributions from Patidar and Green were pivotal. On the bowling front, RCB’s ability to take wickets at crucial junctures and Dayal’s last-over heroics sealed the victory.

The match was rich in statistics and records. Kohli’s record for the most runs at a single venue, and his sixes tally were highlights. RCB’s total of 218 was one of their highest of the season, and their six-match winning streak was unprecedented. Yash Dayal’s redemption story also added to the narrative.

Impact on the Tournament

RCB’s victory secured their place in the playoffs, making them the first team to do so with 14 points. This late surge has positioned them as strong contenders for the title. For CSK, the defeat was a significant blow, as they needed to avoid a big loss to qualify for the playoffs. Their title defense ended abruptly, highlighting the ruthless nature of the competition.

As RCB heads to the playoffs, its focus will be on maintaining its winning momentum. Its next challenge will be the Eliminator in Ahmedabad, where it will face either Rajasthan or Hyderabad. The team’s strategies and player performances will be crucial in determining its further progress in the tournament.

In a thrilling Indian Premier League encounter at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru secured the final playoff spot for the 2024 season by defeating Chennai in a dramatic match. Despite rain interruptions, which added to the tension, Bengaluru emerged victorious by 27 runs, capping off a remarkable six-match winning streak.

Bengaluru’s spectacular victory secure final playoff spot

The victory means Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Bengaluru has all secured playoff spots, leaving Chennai, the reigning champions, out of the running. Chennai’s spirited fightback, led by Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni’s powerful hitting, ultimately fell short, marking a disappointing end to their title defense.

Batting first, Bengaluru set a formidable total of 218 runs, with key contributions from Faf du Plessis and Glenn Maxwell. Rain briefly halted play with Bengaluru at 31/0 after 2.6 overs, but the match soon resumed. Virat Kohli fell to Mitchell Santner for 78/1 after 9.1 overs, followed by Rajat Patidar’s unfortunate run-out, leaving Bengaluru at 113/2 after 12.6 overs. Daryl Mitchell and Shardul Thakur took crucial wickets, but Bengaluru maintained their momentum, finishing at 218/5 after 19.6 overs.

Chennai end in heartbreaking defeat

In response, Chennai suffered an early blow with Glenn Maxwell dismissing Ruturaj Gaikwad on the first ball. Yash Dayal then removed Daryl Mitchell, and Lockie Ferguson took Ajinkya Rahane’s wicket, leaving Chennai at 85/3 after 9.1 overs. Despite a fightback, Maxwell’s run-out of Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube’s dismissal by Cameron Green added to Chennai’s woes. Mohammed Siraj and Yash Dayal’s effective bowling sealed Chennai’s fate, with MS Dhoni’s dismissal marking their seventh wicket down. Despite their efforts, Chennai fell short, scoring only 191 runs.

See Also: Is it the end for Dhoni? Looking at the memorable IPL journey

Speculation now swirls around whether this was MS Dhoni’s final IPL appearance. Despite Chennai’s determined efforts, injuries and exceptional opposition batting during the latter half of the season proved insurmountable. The home crowd roared as Bengaluru showcased excellent composure under pressure, securing their place in the playoffs with a significant win.

IPL 2024 has witnessed thrilling cricketing action, with players showcasing their skills on the grand stage. As the tournament progresses, the race for the Orange and Purple Caps intensifies, highlighting individual brilliance amidst team efforts.

IPL 2024: Top Run-Scorers

Virat Kohli, the stalwart of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), continues to dominate the batting charts. Although he couldn’t score big against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) recently, his quickfire 47 off 29 balls was a testament to his prowess. Kohli has amassed a remarkable 708 runs in 14 matches, reaffirming his status as one of the most incredible batters in the history of the IPL.

See Also: Is it the end for Dhoni? Looking at the memorable IPL journey

Despite facing a setback with another duck against RCB, Ruturaj Gaikwad, the captain of CSK, stands second on the list of highest run-getters this season. Gaikwad has scored 583 runs in 14 matches, showcasing his consistency and skill as a top-order batsman.

The Australian batter Travis Head has significantly impacted the IPL with his explosive hitting. Boasting a strike rate just above 200, Head has scored 533 runs in 11 matches, making him one of the most formidable batters in the tournament.

Riyan Parag, the young sensation from Rajasthan Royals, has been a revelation this season. His remarkable performance has catapulted him into the top five run-getters of the tournament. With 531 runs in 13 matches, Parag has shown maturity and skill beyond his years, making him a key player for his team.

Sai Sudharsan, the young left-hander from Gujarat, has been a crucial cog in his team’s batting order. His century against the defending champions in Ahmedabad was a standout performance. Sudharsan has scored 527 runs in 12 matches, making him one of the top five run-scorers this season.

IPL 2024: Orange Cap

IPL 2024: Most Wickets

Harshal Patel, representing Punjab Kings, was the first bowler to reach the 20-wicket mark this season. His improved game, especially in the death overs, has been impressive. Patel has 22 wickets in 13 matches, making him the season’s leading wicket-taker.

Jasprit Bumrah, Mumbai Indians’ ace bowler, continues to dominate the wicket-takers list in IPL 2024. His performance against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was another example of why he is one of the most feared bowlers in the tournament. Bumrah has bagged 20 wickets in 13 matches, showcasing his lethal bowling skills.

Kolkata Knight Riders’ mystery spinner, Varun Chakravarthy, had a shaky start to the season, but his persistence has paid off. He now ranks among the top wicket-takers with 18 wickets in 12 matches.

Tushar Deshpande: Tushar makes his comeback in the purple cap list. He has 17 wickets in 13 games, averaging 24.94.

Known for his clever leg-spin, Yuzvendra Chahal has consistently troubled batters with his flight and guile. Chahal has taken 17 wickets in 13 games, with a standout performance against Punjab Kings, where he returned figures of 2 for 30.

IPL 2024: Purple Cap

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend MS Dhoni has once again captivated fans with his batting prowess in the IPL 2024 season. Despite limited opportunities at the crease, Dhoni scored 136 runs from 10 innings with a jaw-dropping strike rate of 226.66. His crucial knocks have often steered CSK to victory, reaffirming his status as one of the game’s greatest finishers.

MS Dhoni’s Key Performances in IPL 2024

Dhoni’s 16-ball 37* was a masterclass in aggressive batting, showcasing his ability to change the game in a few overs. This innings was pivotal in CSK securing a comfortable win against the Delhi Capitals.

See Also: IPL 2024: Jitesh Sharma is going to lead PBKS against SRH

In a high-pressure scenario, Dhoni smashed an unbeaten 20 off four balls, demonstrating his knack for hitting big shots in crunch moments. This quick-fire knock was instrumental in CSK’s thrilling win over their arch-rivals, Mumbai Indians.

Dhoni’s nine-ball 28* against Lucknow Super Giants was another display of his finishing skills. His aggressive approach in the death overs ensured a commanding win for CSK.

Dhoni’s 11-ball 26 was crucial in CSK’s victory over Gujarat Titans. His innings provided the late surge needed to post a competitive total.

Early Encounters

Dhoni’s IPL journey with CSK began in 2008 when he was picked up in the inaugural auction and made the team’s captain. His first significant performance against RCB was a 65 off 30 balls, setting the tone for future encounters.

Dhoni-led CSK to their first IPL title, playing a pivotal role in their victory against RCB in the final. He repeated his heroics, guiding CSK to another title win against RCB, cementing his legacy as a successful captain and player.

During CSK’s two-year suspension, Dhoni played for Rising Pune Supergiants. Even then, his performances against RCB were noteworthy, maintaining his dominance over the Bengaluru-based team.

Dhoni’s Return and Continued Dominance

When CSK returned to the IPL in 2018, Dhoni again led the team to victory, winning the title in a fairytale comeback. His leadership and batting were crucial throughout the season. Dhoni added another feather to his cap by leading CSK to their fourth IPL title in 2021. His calm demeanour and sharp, cricketing mind were instrumental in guiding the team to yet another triumph.

Dhoni’s Impact on CSK: Leadership and Strategy

Dhoni’s leadership has been a cornerstone of CSK’s success. His ability to stay calm under pressure and make strategic decisions has earned him the nickname “Captain Cool.” His numerous titles and consistent performances in the playoffs are testaments to his effective leadership.

Known for his finishing abilities, Dhoni has often turned the tide of matches with his aggressive batting in the death overs. His ability to read the game and execute plans has made him one of the most feared batters in the IPL.

Apart from his batting and leadership, Dhoni’s wicketkeeping skills have also been top-notch. His quick reflexes and sharp dismissals have saved many runs and contributed to CSK’s defensive strength.

MS Dhoni’s Records and Achievements

• 5,243 IPL Runs: Dhoni’s overall run tally in the IPL is a testament to his consistency and skill over the years.
• High Strike Rate: Maintaining a high strike rate, especially in the latter part of his career, underscores his ability to adapt and perform under pressure.
• Multiple IPL Titles: Dhoni has led CSK to five IPL titles, making him one of the most successful captains in the league’s history.

Batting Statistics

Fielding Statistics

Royal Challengers Bengaluru completed a remarkable turnaround to their IPL 2024 fortunes, beating Chennai Super Kings by 27 runs in their final league game at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday to qualify for the playoffs. This dramatic outcome was decided in a high-stakes match, leaving fans on the edge of their seats as the destiny of two powerhouse teams was decided.

RCB’s Innings: Setting the Stage

RCB’s top-order, led by captain Faf du Plessis, delivered an exceptional performance. Winning the toss, CSK opted to bowl first, aiming to leverage the chasing-friendly conditions at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, du Plessis had other plans.

See Also: Watch: Spectacular catch by Faf fu Plessis to dismiss Santner

Du Plessis led from the front, scoring a brisk 54 off 39 balls. This marked his fourth fifty of the IPL 2024 season. His innings provided a solid foundation for RCB’s batting lineup.

Key Contributions from Top-Order Batsmen

• Virat Kohli’s Impactful Knock: Kohli contributed significantly with 47 off 29 deliveries, maintaining the momentum set by du Plessis.
• Rajat Patidar’s Quickfire Innings: Patidar scored a rapid 41 off 23 balls, accelerating the scoring rate.
• Cameron Green’s Power Hitting: Green added a quickfire 38 off 17 balls, pushing RCB towards a formidable total.

Lower Order Blitz by Dinesh Karthik and Glenn Maxwell

Towards the end of the innings, Dinesh Karthik and Glenn Maxwell played crucial cameos, ensuring RCB set an imposing target of 218 for five. Their blitzkrieg in the final overs lifted the team’s total to a competitive level.

CSK’s Disastrous Start

CSK’s chase got off to a disastrous start with opener Ruturaj Gaikwad’s dismissal on the very first ball. Glenn Maxwell bowled a short delivery that spun in from the middle stump line, and Gaikwad, attempting a pull shot, mistimed it, resulting in a catch by Yash Dayal. This early setback immediately put CSK on the back foot.

Rachin Ravindra tried to stabilize the innings, launching a counter-attack and quickly reaching a well-deserved half-century. However, wickets kept tumbling at the other end, putting immense pressure on Ravindra to anchor the chase.

Critical Run-Out

A mix-up between Ravindra and Shivam Dube resulted in a crucial run-out. The miscommunication and subsequent dismissal further dented CSK’s prospects, exacerbating their precarious situation.

The middle order, including the experienced MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja duo, needed help keeping up with the escalating required run rate. While Dhoni and Jadeja managed to keep the scoreboard ticking in the later overs, their primary focus shifted to qualifying rather than outright winning the match.

RCB’s Bowling and Fielding

RCB’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured that CSK never got the chance to claw back into the game. The bowlers executed their plans meticulously, maintaining pressure on CSK’s batters.

This victory secured RCB’s place in the playoffs and marked a significant achievement for the team, which had been striving for consistency throughout the season. The win was a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic execution.

The clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 68 of IPL 2024 was more than just a game; it was a battle for survival. The stakes couldn’t have been higher, with both teams vying for the last playoff spot. Fans from both sides were on the edge of their seats, knowing that this match would determine their team’s fate in the tournament.

Faf du Plessis’ spectacular catch

RCB are back on top with the heroics of their ‘flying bird’ Faf du Plessis, who leapt into the air to secure an unthinkable catch, sending Mitchell Santner back to the pavilion. The entire Chinnaswamy stadium erupted in cheers as du Plessis achieved the unimaginable.

See Also: Milestones set to be achieved in RCB vs CSK, IPL 2024

It was the last ball of an over when Mitchell Santner’s moment of brilliance changed the game. Siraj delivered a low full-toss, and Santner, leaning back, lofted the ball. Faf du Plessis, positioned perfectly at the edge of the ring, leapt at the right time, stretching his arm out to complete a stunning catch. The crowd erupted as Santner was dismissed for three runs off four balls, and du Plessis’ catch was celebrated as a match-defining moment.

CSK’s Chase Begins

With a target of 219 runs, CSK needed a strong start. However, Glenn Maxwell had other plans. Maxwell bowled a delivery on the first ball of the innings that spun just enough to deceive Ruturaj Gaikwad. Gaikwad, on the back foot, tried to pull it but mistimed the shot. Yash Dayal made no mistake, taking a swift catch and sending the CSK skipper back for a golden duck. The crowd went wild as Gaikwad walked back, leaving CSK in a precarious position.

Match Context

As the match approached, RCB was ranked 4th on the points table, while CSK was ranked 7th. For Chennai, a win or even a narrow defeat would be enough to secure their place in the playoffs.

The Toss and Early Decisions

CSK won the toss and opted to bowl first, influenced by the Chinnaswamy Stadium’s reputation as a good chasing ground. This strategic choice reflected CSK’s confidence in their batting lineup’s ability to chase down any target set by RCB.