IPL 2025: Shane Watson reveals game plan for RCB to win against CSK in Southern Derby

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be locking horns against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 28, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai in Match No. 8 of IPL 2025. CSK played their last match in the previous season against RCB and lost the game, losing a spot in the play-offs. Following the game, RCB players were busy celebrating, and then the fans misbehaved with the CSK fans outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

After what happened in the previous season between these two teams, the Southern Derby will be quite interesting to watch. While talking on JioHotstar, former cricketer Shane Watson spoke about the pressure RCB will be in because of their team composition. Chepauk generally supports the spinners more, which was quite visible in the previous game. So, RCB will have to make changes to their side.

"CSK’s entire setup is built around excelling in Chennai. Just look at the three spinners who bowled brilliantly in their opening game against MI — Ashwin, Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad. They are going to be a real handful on that surface," Watson told.

"It’s going to be a huge challenge for RCB to go to Chepauk, especially given the quality of bowlers CSK have at their disposal. RCB will likely need to adjust their team composition to counter CSK’s strengths. But make no mistake — Chepauk is a fortress," he added.

Also Check: CSK vs RCB Dream11 Prediction, Match 8, IPL 2025

Watson lavishes praise on Noor Ahmad

Noor Ahmad has been an incredible addition to the CSK squad before the IPL 2025. The player claimed four wickets on his debut for the team and has a lot of potential in him to take wickets in the upcoming games as well. With the spin attack CSK have, they are set for the home games. The former Australia all-rounder praised the Afghan spinner for his terrific performance in the first game of this season.

"Seeing Noor Ahmad make such an impact in his first game for CSK will only boost the team’s confidence, knowing they have another wicket-taking option," the ex-CSK star added.