RCB Playing XI vs CSK – 8th Match, IPL 2025 | RCB Best Playing11 for Today’s Match

RCB Playing XI vs CSK IPL 2025:  Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their second match of IPL 2025 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, on March 28. After a thrilling comeback win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their opening game, RCB will aim to break their Chepauk curse and continue their winning momentum under new captain Rajat Patidar.

This high-voltage match will be a test of skill on a slow and spin-friendly surface, where both teams will rely on their quality spinners.

RCB’s strong batting unit, led by Virat Kohli and Phil Salt, will have to tackle CSK’s spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad. Meanwhile, RCB’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma, will look to counter CSK’s aggressive batting lineup.

Let’s take a look at RCB’s predicted playing XI, key players, and tactical approach for this crucial encounter.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Playing XI vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK) IPL 2025

Openers: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt

• Virat Kohli – The former captain looked in great touch in RCB’s opener, smashing his 98th T20 fifty in his 400th match. His experience will be key against CSK’s spinners.

• Phil Salt – The explosive English wicketkeeper-batter made a strong debut for RCB with a quickfire fifty. His ability to attack early will be crucial against CSK’s new-ball attack.

Middle-Order Batters: Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (C), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya

• Devdutt Padikkal provides stability at No. 3 and has a strong game against spin, making him vital against Ashwin and Jadeja.

• Rajat Patidar (C) – The new captain, known for his aggressive stroke play, will be crucial in tackling CSK’s spinners in the middle overs.

• Liam Livingstone – A powerful all-rounder who can destroy spinners and contribute with his off-spin.

• Jitesh Sharma (WK) – A reliable finisher who can accelerate in the death overs.

• Krunal Pandya – A key all-rounder who played a match-winning role against KKR with his three-wicket haul and handy batting.

Also Check: CSK vs RCB Match Preview – Match 8 Pitch Report & Winning Prediction

Bowlers: Suyash Sharma, Yash Dayal, Rasikh Dar Salam, Josh Hazlewood

• Suyash Sharma – The young leg-spinner will play a crucial role in the middle overs, countering CSK’s batting lineup.

• Yash Dayal – Left-arm pacer known for his accuracy and ability to bowl in different phases of the game.

• Rasikh Dar Salam – A promising pacer who brings variety to RCB’s attack.

• Josh Hazlewood – The Aussie speedster was outstanding against KKR with 2-22 and will be RCB’s main weapon against CSK’s top order.

RCB Key Players vs CSK

Virat Kohli – RCB’s batting mainstay; he will need to lead from the front against CSK’s bowlers.
Phil Salt – Can provide a fiery start, crucial in setting the momentum.
Rajat Patidar – RCB’s new captain, will be keen to make an impact.
 Josh Hazlewood – The Aussie pacer will play a key role in the powerplay and death overs.
Krunal Pandya – His all-around skills will be crucial on the slow Chepauk track.

RCB’s Strategy Against CSK

• Attack early: Kohli and Salt will aim to maximize the power play before spin takes control.
• Tackle CSK’s Spinners: Patidar and Padikkal need to handle Ashwin, Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad smartly.
• Middle-Overs Impact: Livingstone and Krunal Pandya’s aggressive approach will be key against CSK’s spin-heavy attack.
• Bowling Plans: Hazlewood will look to strike early, while Suyash Sharma’s spin will be crucial in mthe iddle overs.

RCB’s Challenge at Chepauk: Can They Break the Curse?

Historically, RCB has struggled at Chepauk, winning just 1 out of 9 games at this venue. However, with a strong squad and renewed approach under Rajat Patidar’s leadership, they have a real chance to turn things around in IPL 2025.

Will RCB finally conquer Chepauk, or will CSK maintain their dominance at home? Find out on March 28!