Whenever Virat Kohli is in opposition, it is a clash to look forward to: Ruturaj Gaikwad

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set for a classic showdown as renowned rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the historic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday, March 2

Ahead of the mouth-watering encounter, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad said that he is looking forward to having a tactical battle against long-time friend and new RCB skipper Rajat Patidar. Gaikwad revealed that he had messaged Patidar and wished him good luck after he had been appointed as the captain of the Bengaluru-based franchise.

"Really looking forward to playing against RCB, especially with Rajat (Patidar) as the new captain. Immediately when they announced Rajat as the captain, I messaged him and wished him good luck. We have been friends for a while now, we know each other really well, and obviously, RCB has been one of the strongest teams. They have done really well every year now," Gaikwad told JioStar.

Gaikwad also spoke about the opportunity of playing against the legendary Virat Kohli, lauding the stalwart's consistent performances for his franchise as well as for his country. The Maharashtra batter mentioned that after the clash against Mumbai Indians, if there is one team which CSK look forward to facing, it is RCB.

"And whenever Virat Kohli is in the opposition, whenever he is playing, it is always a clash to look forward to. He’s been doing it for a really long time now, consistently for RCB and for the country as well. So, it is always a great match, and after Mumbai Indians, this is the second match we always look forward to," Gaikwad explained.

CSK and RCB are coming off important wins in their opening encounters in IPL 2025. While CSK defeated Mumbai by four wickets at home, RCB eased past defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens by seven wickets. Both teams will be eager to double their points tally at the end of the match on Friday. However, only one will prevail. Fans are waiting with bated breath for what promises to be an intriguing affair.