"To counter CSK’s strengths..." - Shane Watson issues huge warning to Virat Kohli-starrer RCB
Published - 27 Mar 2025, 04:24 PM | Updated - 27 Mar 2025, 11:41 PM
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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are gearing up for a tough battle as they prepare to take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the ongoing IPL 2025 on March 28 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Both teams would love to extend their form after winning their season openers.
With the much-awaited IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings set to take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Shane Watson said that RCB will have to adapt to the spin-friendly conditions of the Chepauk pitch, which has historically favored CSK.
Shane Watson warns RCB of CSK’s spin threat at Chepauk
After a dominant win over Kolkata Knight Riders in their opening match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be looking to carry forward their winning momentum. However, the former Australian all-rounder has pointed out that they will have to make strategic changes in their lineup.
Shane Watson said on JioStar: “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.”
Watson, who played for both CSK and RCB, believes that one of the biggest threats for Rajat Patidar and his team will be Chennai’s formidable spin attack at the Chepauk stadium. The former Australian all-rounder also hailed the spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, and Ravindra Jadeja for their effectiveness in the team’s opening game against the Mumbai Indians.
Shane Watson says CSK's entire setup is built around excelling in Chennai
The Aussie noted that the CSK spinners made it clear that they will be crucial in controlling the game, and with conditions likely to favor spin, RCB will need a solid plan to counter CSK’s spin attack and ensure they don’t fall into the same trap as previous teams at the Chepauk Stadium.
Watson added, “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. 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.”
Notably, Royal Challengers Bengaluru face a tough challenge against Chennai Super Kings, as they look to break a 17-year winless streak at Chepauk. Their success will depend on smart batting, especially against CSK’s strong spin attack rather than outright aggression.
All eyes will be on Virat Kohli during CSK vs RCB IPL 2025 Match
Virat Kohli’s improved approach against spin, including sweeps and attacking strokes, will be key for them against Chennai, but he will also need support from other batters like Phil Salt and Liam Livingstone. Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s fitness is a major concern for them.
On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings will be hoping for a better performance from their middle order, as Shivam Dube, Deepak Hooda, and Sam Curran struggled in the last match against Mumbai Indians.
They need to step up and support Rachin Ravindra and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, while they will also expect MS Dhoni to deliver a quickfire knock if needed against the Bengaluru team.
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