IPL 2025: RCB Faces a Tough Challenge Against CSK at Chepauk, Says Shane Watson

Former Australian cricketer Shane Watson has expressed concerns about Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) upcoming clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, popularly known as Chepauk. Watson believes that RCB will face a formidable challenge, given CSK’s home advantage and their strong spin attack.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson believes Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will face a tough test against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Chepauk.
• RCB, led by Rajat Patidar, will take on the five-time champions on Friday in their second game of IPL 2025.
• CSK's formidable spin attack, featuring Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad, could pose significant challenges for RCB.

RCB started their IPL 2025 campaign on a high note, securing a dominant seven-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. Meanwhile, CSK also began their season with a win, defeating Mumbai Indians by four wickets. Their spin trio—Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad—played a crucial role in restricting MI to 155 runs, with Noor Ahmad claiming an impressive four-wicket haul on a spin-friendly surface.

"It’s going to be a huge challenge for RCB at Chepauk, especially with the quality of bowlers CSK has in their lineup," Watson said on JioHotstar. "Ashwin, Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad were exceptional in their opening game against MI. Seeing Noor perform so well in his first match for CSK will only add to their confidence, knowing they have yet another wicket-taking option."

RCB Needs Strategic Adjustments

Watson, a former CSK player himself, emphasized that RCB must tweak their lineup to counter CSK’s spin dominance.

"RCB will have to make some tactical changes to stand a chance. Chepauk has always been a fortress for CSK, and their entire strategy revolves around excelling in these conditions. Breaking through their stronghold will require something extraordinary from RCB," he added.

RCB’s spin department consists of Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma, with Liam Livingstone providing part-time support. However, the absence of an internationally renowned spinner in their squad could prove costly against a spin-heavy CSK side.

As the two teams gear up for this crucial battle, all eyes will be on how RCB tackles the Chepauk challenge and whether they can overcome CSK’s spin dominance.