Chennai Super Kings Opt to Bowl Against Royal Challengers in Thrilling IPL Clash

In a key IPL 2025 match, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad chose to field against RCB at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium. Both teams made tactical changes with CSK bringing in Matheesha Pathirana and RCB opting for Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The captains shared their strategies ahead of the exciting clash.

The anticipation was palpable at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad elected to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the eighth match of Indian Premier League 2025, held on Friday.

CSK made a strategic change by bringing in Matheesha Pathirana to replace Nathan Ellis, reflecting their intention to strengthen the bowling attack. RCB, led by Rajat Patidar, also tweaked their lineup, introducing experienced bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar in place of Rasikh Salam.

Gaikwad expressed his desire for a more aggressive approach in the field, while Patidar was confident that setting a solid total would put CSK under pressure. Both captains revealed a mutual inclination to bowl first, acknowledging the unpredictable dew factor in Chennai.

(With inputs from agencies.)