IPL 2024: RCB vs CSK Match 68 - Top 3 player battles to watch out for

The 17th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) is all set to witness a blockbuster clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Match 68 of the 2024 season is truly a virtual knockout as both teams contest their final league match to secure the final playoff spot.

Defending champions CSK have a slight edge as they are currently fourth in the points table with 14 points and a better net run rate (NRR) of +0.528. They need just a win or share of points in the upcoming match to qualify for the knockouts. On the other hand, sixth-placed RCB (12 points) should aim for not only a win but also a decent margin as they currently have a relatively lower NRR (+0.387) than CSK.

Both teams are coming on the back of impressive wins, but Faf du Plessis and Co. have won five games in a row. However, when the two teams faced each other in the series opener in Chennai, the hosts won by six wickets. This time RCB will seek revenge for a greater cause at their home ground, the Chinnaswamy Stadium, but only if the rain gods show some mercy.

Check Here: M Chinnaswamy Stadium Live Weather Updates

Here are the top three player battles to watch out for ahead of RCB vs CSK in IPL 2024, Match 68:

3. Glenn Maxwell vs Ravindra Jadeja

This could be an interesting battle in the game. Glenn Maxwell has had a lean patch since the start of the tournament, but RCB fans and management will be expecting him to give his all in the do-or-die match. RCB will be desperate for runs from Maxi's bat, especially in the absence of Will Jacks. 

However, it won't be easy for the Australian all-rounder as CSK may have already marked him with left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja. The two have clashed in 51 balls in the IPL, with Maxwell only managing to strike at a rate of 137.25 and getting out six times. This clearly shows Jadeja's upper hand and he has been in good form with the ball this season.

Check Here: IPL 2024 Purple Cap

2. Faf du Plessis vs Tushar Deshpande

Faf du Plessis has had a topsy-turvy season with the bat so far. He has managed to provide some sparking starts in recent matches. CSK are well aware of the threat that their former opener can pose, but at the same time, they also know the strategy to stop him. 

Right-arm pacer Tushar Deshpande is enjoying his best IPL season this year and will aim for another effective outing in their final league match. He is CSK's wicket-taking bowler and will be tasked with providing an early breakthrough by dismissing the RCB skipper. However, in their 25-ball meeting in the IPL, du Plessis has never been dismissed and has a strike rate of 184.0.

Check Here: IPL 2024 Orange Cap

1. Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Mohammed Siraj

Ruturaj Gaikwad's thirst for runs this season is evident as the CSK skipper leads them from the front with over 580 runs. He mainly plays the role of anchor and helps the team post a competitive total. Gaikwad will be aiming for another effective outing in a must-win game and RCB will want to get him out as early as possible. 

Check Here: RCB vs CSK Dream11 Prediction

Mohammed Siraj will be up for the battle in the powerplay. The right-arm pacer had a poor start to the tournament but has found his mojo in recent matches. When the two faced each other off 47 balls in the IPL, the CSK opener managed just 63 runs and was dismissed once. Siraj will look to give RCB a strong start by removing Gaikwad early.