30 April,2025 07:08 PM IST | Chennai | mid-day online correspondent
Pic: iplt20/BCCI
Chennai Super Kings stand on the verge of an unwanted record as they gear up to host the Punjab Kings in a showdown that has become more about restoring pride than securing a playoff berth.
With just two wins from nine matches, the five-time champions find themselves languishing at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table. In contrast, PBKS have enjoyed a relatively steady campaign, occupying fifth place with five wins, three losses, and one no result.
For CSK, this season has been an uncharacteristic and dismal chapter in their illustrious legacy. Their home ground, Chepauk, once considered a fortress, has failed to offer its usual advantage, with the team managing just a solitary win in five matches played there. Their campaign began with promise, registering a victory over arch-rivals Mumbai Indians, but what followed was a cascade of inconsistent and disappointing performances.
3 player battles that could shape the outcome of CSK vs PBKS, IPL 2025
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MS Dhoni vs Yuzvendra Chahal
Veteran MS Dhoni has endured a lukewarm IPL so far, scoring 140 runs from nine matches at an average of 28 and a strike rate of 142.86. Chahal, after a shaky start to the season, returned to form with a match-winning four-wicket haul against Kolkata Knight Riders. Their head-to-head record is intriguing, Dhoni has scored 102 runs off 80 deliveries from Chahal, falling to him three times, striking at 127.50. Chahal's renewed rhythm could challenge Dhoni's finishing prowess.
Shreyas Iyer vs Khaleel Ahmed
Khaleel Ahmed has been a consistent performer for PBKS, claiming 12 wickets from nine matches. Shreyas Iyer, meanwhile, has been a rock in CSK's batting lineup, amassing 288 runs at an average of 48 and a formidable strike rate of 182.28. However, Khaleel has dismissed Iyer three times in 24 deliveries, with Iyer scoring 33 runs at a strike rate of 137.50. Their duel could be pivotal in the middle overs.
Shivam Dube vs Arshdeep Singh
Dube has provided solid contributions with the bat, scoring 242 runs at an average of 34.57 and a strike rate of 133.70. Arshdeep Singh, with 11 wickets to his name, has proven effective with the new ball and at the death. Dube has scored 25 runs off 18 balls against Arshdeep, but has also been dismissed twice. This contest could influence CSK's momentum during the crucial middle and death overs.
