IPL 2024: Chennai Super Kings strongest predicted playing XI against Royal Challengers Bengaluru

In the highly anticipated 2024 IPL opener, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), led by MS Dhoni, will cross swords with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The high-voltage southern derby clash is set to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 22.

The Chennai-based franchise holds the advantage over the three-time finalists, having prevailed in 20 out of 31 encounters, while RCB has emerged victorious only 10 times, with one game ending without a result. More particularly, CSK clinched their second IPL title by overpowering RCB by 58 runs in the 2011 final in Chennai. However, both sides are expected to deliver outstanding performances in the opening fixture, promising fans an exhilarating showdown in the capital city of Tamil Nadu.

Click Here: CSK vs RCB Live Score, Match 1

Here's Chennai Super Kings' Predicted XI against Royal Challengers Bengaluru:

Openers: Rachin Ravindra, Ruturaj Gaikwad

With CSK's star opener Devon Conway expected to be out of action till May, the team is expected to field a new opening pair of Rachin Ravindra and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Ravindra, New Zealand's batting sensation with an Indian connection, was roped in by CSK in the IPL 2024 mini-auction for a whopping INR 1.8 crore. The 24-year-old southpaw has had a terrific campaign in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, finishing as the fourth leading run-scorer of the tournament. With excellent stats in the T20 format, he is poised to showcase his batting prowess as he is set to make his debut in the cash-rich league.

Gaikwad, on the other hand, was signed by CSK at the IPL 2019 player auction at his base price of INR 20 lakhs. The opening batter hails from Pune, has so far accumulated nearly 1800 runs in 52 games, and has tasted IPL victory with CSK twice - in 2021 and 2023. His standout performance came in the 2021 edition, where he racked up 635 runs in 16 games, including a century, averaging 45.35, and eventually won the coveted Orange Cap for finishing as the top run scorer. Subsequently, he was retained by CSK for a hefty sum of INR 6 crore ahead of the 2022 edition. The 27-year-old has been their most compatible opener and aims to continue his consistency by forging vital partnerships with his new opening partner. Moreover, he is set to lead CSK for the first time, succeeding MS Dhoni.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Orange Cap

Middle order: Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, MS Dhoni

The team’s strength lies in its middle order, featuring Ajinkya Rahane, new addition Daryl Mitchell, and MS Dhoni. Rahane enjoyed a terrific campaign in 2023 and won his first IPL title with CSK. He emerged as the fourth-leading run-scorer of the side, having amassed 326 runs in 14 games at an average of 32.6. The 35-year-old's notable performance in the previous year came against two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders where he scored a quick 29-ball-71*, propelling CSK to a commanding total of 235 runs and a 49-run victory at the iconic Eden Gardens. The Maharashtra-born is expected to play a crucial role for CSK despite concern over his recent domestic form.

Daryl Mitchell is set to make his return to IPL and will be a key cog for the champion franchise. He had a brief stint with Rajasthan Royals in 2022, playing only two matches and scoring just 33 runs. The Kiwi had a memorable campaign in the 2023 ODI World Cup where he finished as the fifth-highest run scorer with 552 runs in 10 games. With his power-hitting abilities, he is anticipated to be a force to reckon with for the Chennai-based franchise.

Despite speculations around his participation, MS Dhoni appears to be fitter as seen in his recent practice sessions. Having relinquished the captaincy, the 42-year-old will focus solely on his role as a wicketkeeper in the upcoming edition, which is expected to be his last one. The legendary wicketkeeper-batter has the ability to create unforgettable moments, particularly with his powerful sixes.

Also Check: Chennai vs Bangalore, Match 1 - MPL Opinio Prediction

All-rounders: Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur

Shivam Dube was the third leading run-scorer for CSK in their title-winning campaign in 2023, tallying 418 runs at an average of 38. The 30-year-old all-rounder has garnered attention following his recent performances for the national side, specifically in the T20 format. He exhibited an all-round performance in India's home T20I series against Afghanistan which earned him the Player of the Series as India whitewashed the series 3-0. He is expected to play a pivotal role for CSK in the forthcoming game.

Ravindra Jadeja, the lucky charm for Chennai, is expected to deliver another stellar performance for the team in the upcoming game, as he has done multiple times in the past. The seasoned spin all-rounder will look to thrive in Chepauk’s favourable conditions when the Yellove Army locks horns with RCB. It is worth noting that it was Jadeja's efforts that helped CSK to secure their record-equalling fifth IPL title.

Shardul Thakur is set to make his return to CSK this season after being bought for INR 4 crore. His previous stint with CSK is defined by impactful performances, particularly as the highest wicket-taker for the side during their successful IPL campaigns in 2018 and 2021. The all-rounder's return will be a testament to CSK's confidence in his prowess with both bat and ball.

Also Check: Chennai vs Bangalore, Match 1 - MPL Opinio Prediction

Bowlers: Deepak Chahar, Mukesh Choudhary, Maheesh Theekshana

Deepak Chahar has been CSK’s trump card ever since joining the franchise in 2018. He has a knack for swinging the new ball and giving CSK early breakthroughs in the initial overs. Last year, he showcased his prowess by picking up 13 wickets in 10 games, further reaffirming his stature as one of the premier seamers in the competition. His breakthrough season was the 2018 IPL, where he claimed 10 wickets in 12 matches.

Mukesh Choudhary has played only a single season with CSK and missed the 2023 IPL season due to injury. In the 2022 edition, he demonstrated his potential, picking up 16 wickets in 13 games. He adds firepower alongside Chahar in the powerplay, fortifying the bowling arsenal.

Maheesh Theekshana will strengthen the defending champions' spin attack. He has so far picked up 23 wickets in 22 matches for the five-time champions. The Sri Lankan star, who can make unique bowling variations and can bamboozle batters with his mystery spin makes him a potential game-changer, particularly during the middle overs.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Purple Cap

CSK's Predicted XI for IPL opener:

Rachin Ravindra, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Mukesh Choudhary, Maheesh Theekshana