CSK vs DC: Head-to-Head Stats, Pitch Report & Playing 11

The MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) is set to host a thrilling encounter between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals (DC) in the 18th season of the IPL. While CSK, the five-time champions, have had a shaky start with just one win in three matches, DC, under new captain Axar Patel, has been in fine form, winning both their opening games. However, the spin-friendly Chepauk pitch could play a decisive role in stopping Delhi’s winning momentum.

Head-to-Head Record

• Total matches: 30
• CSK wins: 19
• DC wins: 11
• At Chepauk: CSK 7, DC 2

Chepauk Pitch Report

The MA Chidambaram Stadium is traditionally known for:

• Slow, turning surface
• Average first innings score: 160-170
• Big advantage for spinners
• Batting first preferred (65% win rate)

Key Pitch Characteristics

• Spin Dominance: Spinners like Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Noor Ahmed will be crucial.
• Batting Approach: Batsmen need patience and smart shot selection. Aggressive hitters may struggle against the turning ball.
• Average 1st Innings Score (Last 5 IPL matches): ~160-170
• Verdict: The team winning the toss may prefer to bat first, as chasing on this pitch can be tricky.

Predicted Playing XIs

Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Shivam Dube, Vijay Shankar, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (wk), R Ashwin, Mukesh Choudhary, Noor Ahmed, Khaleel Ahmed

Delhi Capitals (DC)

Axar Patel (c), Jack Fraser-McGurk, Faf du Plessis, Abhishek Porel, KL Rahul, Tristan Stubbs, Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohit Sharma, Tripurana Vijay

Key Battles to Watch

• CSK's spin trio (Jadeja, Ashwin, Noor) vs DC’s left-handers
• Powerplay battle: Starc/Choudhary vs Gaikwad/Ravindra
• Middle-overs: Kuldeep vs CSK’s right-handers

Match Prediction

Given CSK’s dominant 7-2 home record against DC and their superior spin attack, they start as favorites. However, DC’s explosive top-order could pose a challenge if they survive the initial spin threat.

Also Read: CHE vs DEL: 3 players who can top score in CSK vs DC match today

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