IPL 2024 – Match 1: CSK vs RCB Preview, Playing XI, Players to Watch, Key Stats
CSK vs RCB: Chennai Super Kings will kick off their title defence against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 1st match of IPL 2024
The IPL 2024 opening match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) promises to be a spectacle of cricketing excellence. CSK, under the astute leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, will enter the contest with a blend of experience and youth, CSK will rely on their trademark disciplined approach and strategic acumen to outwit their opponents.
On the other hand, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, led by their charismatic skipper Faf Du Plessis, will bring their own brand of explosive cricket to the field. With a lineup boasting the likes of Virat Kohli, Glen Maxwell, and new acquisitions, RCB will look to set the stage on fire with their aggressive batting prowess.
CSK vs RCB Match Details:
| Date | 22 March 2024 |
| Time | 7:30 PM (IST) |
| Venue | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai |
Pitch Report
Famous for its sluggish nature, aiding spinners, the Chennai venue pitches are expected to maintain their traditional character. However, the first few matches might offer some respite for batters. Chasing hasn’t been easy here in T20 matches.
CSK vs RCB Probable Playing XI
Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Sameer Rizvi, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Maheesh Theekshana, Mustafizur Rehman
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Faf du Plessis (C), Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Mahipal Lomror, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Anuj Rawat, Karn Sharma, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammed Siraj
Key Batters To Watch for CSK vs RCB:
Ruturaj Gaikwad: Gaikwad’s impressive stats and records at the MA Chidambaram Stadium further highlight his significance in the team.
Faf Du Plessis: Skipper Faf du Plessis too has led from the front while batting at the top alongside Kohli, he would look to continue the same role this year as well.
Key Bowlers To Watch for CSK vs RCB:
Deepak Chahar: India seamer Deepak Chahar is ready for a comeback and has set his sights on the T20 World Cup to be jointly hosted by the USA and West Indies in June. His knack of taking wickets with the new ball makes him an important asset in the team.
Mohammed Siraj: He remains the main bowler for the RCB, and would definitely look to give 1-2 early blows to the CSK. He can bowl both with a new ball and in the middle order.
Key Stats for CSK vs RCB:
- Virat Kohli has been out three times against CSK in the powerplay.
- Ravindra Jadeja has been able to show Maxwell the dressing room for 7 times in 15 innings
- Virat Kohli has scored 985 runs against CSK, which is the most by any Indian batter.
