By Chirag - May 20, 2025 09:41 AM
The Indian Premier League 2025 is nearing its conclusion, and although both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have endured disappointing campaigns, they are set to face off in what promises to be a competitive fixture on Tuesday, May 20, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.
In their previous meeting earlier this season, RR edged past CSK by a narrow margin of six runs. Rajasthan scored 182/9 in 20 overs when they batted first. Despite a strong chase, Chennai fell short, managing 176/6. Both teams are out of playoff contention and will be aiming to end their seasons on a positive note.
Currently, CSK sits at the bottom of the table with just three victories from 12 games, while RR has fared marginally better with three wins from 13 matches. Chennai registered a close win over KKR before the brief season break, whereas Rajasthan lost their last game to PBKS by 10 runs.
As both teams prepare for their final game of the season, here’s a look at three bowlers who could have a big impact in today’s encounter:
Image Source: IPL-X
Afghanistan’s wrist spinner Noor Ahmad has been a standout performer for CSK this season. He leads their bowling chart with 20 wickets at an average of 17.25 and an impressive economy of 8.02.
In CSK’s recent win over KKR, Noor delivered a match-winning spell, picking up 4/31 in his four overs. He also made a mark the last time these two teams met, dismissing key batters Sanju Samson and Dhruv Jurel, finishing with figures of 2/28.
Noor will be a crucial weapon in Chennai’s attack once again, especially on a surface that could favor spin.
Image Source: IPL-X
Left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed has quietly gone about his business, becoming CSK’s second-highest wicket-taker with 14 scalps in 12 games. This season, his economy rate is 9.71 and his average is 28.21.
Against RR in their last outing, Khaleel struck twice, removing Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jofra Archer, although he went for 38 runs in the process. While he went wicketless in their last match versus KKR, his ability to strike early with the new ball remains vital.
Facing the RR top order will be a stern test, but Khaleel will be eager to bounce back strongly.
Image Source: IPL-X
Tushar Deshpande of RR made an impression in their last match against PBKS, taking 2/37 and getting rid of both openers, Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya. Although he’s had an inconsistent run, taking 8 wickets in 9 matches at an average of 38.37, Deshpande remains a key powerplay bowler for Rajasthan.
In the reverse fixture against CSK earlier this season, he had a rough outing, conceding 45 runs without a wicket. However, he will be determined to make a strong comeback in what will be RR’s final match of the season.
Despite both CSK and RR enduring tough seasons, individual brilliance could still define the outcome of today’s game. With pride on the line, bowlers like Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, and Tushar Deshpande will look to rise to the occasion and finish the season on a high note.
Also Read: CSK vs RR: Head to Head, Playing 11 and Fantasy team (Ai prediction)
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