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THE FACTS
When is Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru on and what time does it start? Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take place on Friday 22nd March, 2024 – 14:30 (UK)
Where can I get tickets for Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru? Visit each team’s official website for the latest ticket information
What channel is Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru on in the UK? Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be televised live on Sky Sports Cricket
Where can I stream Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the UK? Sky Sports subscribers can stream Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru live on Sky Go
THE LOWDOWN
CHENNAI SUPER KINGS
- The legendary MS Dhoni returns again as part of a formidable Chennai Super Kings side on the back of having lifted a fifth IPL title in 2023, Ravindra Jadeja famously hitting a winning boundary off the last ball in a thrilling final vs Gujarat Titans, but Dhoni will not captain the team this year, having handed over those responsibilities to Ruturaj Gaikwad.
- Jadeja will no doubt have a key part to play in 2024 with both bat and ball, as will new big-money auction signing Rachin Ravindra, but CSK will start the tournament without star Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana, who is injured.
ROYAL CHALLENGERS BENGALURU
- Fresh off the back of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru women’s team lifting the 2024 WPL title and winning RCB its first major trophy in franchise history, the onus is now on their men’ side containing superstar Virat Kohli to follow suit and end a 17-year-wait for a maidan IPL title.
- After another year of failure in 2023, Mike Heeson has departed the franchise as director of cricket operations and Andy Flower installed as head coach, although experienced South African opener Faf du Plessis remains as captain.
THE PREDICTION
So much of Chennai Super Kings’ success across IPL history has been based on their difficulty to beat at home. That isn’t expected to change in 2024 with a spin-bowling attack that suits your typical pitch in Chepauk. These two teams are well-matched from a batting perspective but that extra quality in the spin-department combined with the vast experience of home conditions among the core of this CSK side should see the reigning champions start with victory over RCB in Gaikwad’s first game as their new permanent captain.
TIP: CHENNAI SUPER KINGS TO WIN