In a thrilling encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on March 28, 2025, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ended a long-standing jinx by defeating the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 50 runs in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This victory marks RCB's first win at Chepauk since 2008, a feat that has eluded them for 17 years.
RCB, led by captain Rajat Patidar, set a formidable target of 197 runs after batting first, scoring 196/7 in their 20 overs. Patidar played a crucial role, scoring a brisk 51 runs off 32 balls, which included four boundaries and three sixes. His innings was pivotal in establishing a competitive total, allowing RCB to put pressure on CSK right from the start.
Phil Salt also contributed significantly to RCB's innings with a quickfire 32 runs off just 16 deliveries, setting the tone for an aggressive batting display. Despite losing early wickets, RCB managed to build partnerships that kept their innings afloat. However, it was Noor Ahmad who stood out with the ball for CSK, taking 3 wickets for 29 runs in his four overs, showcasing his skills as a key player for the home side.
When CSK took to the crease, they faced immediate setbacks. Josh Hazlewood, RCB's star bowler, struck early, dismissing Rahul Tripathi in the second over, and then sent CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad back to the pavilion without scoring. The home side's batting lineup crumbled under pressure, losing 7 wickets for just 99 runs at one point, which left them reeling.
Rachin Ravindra emerged as the lone warrior for CSK, scoring 41 runs off 31 balls, but he lacked the support needed from his teammates. The middle-order collapse was exacerbated by Yash Dayal's exceptional bowling, who took 2 wickets for just 18 runs, and Liam Livingstone, who added to CSK's woes with figures of 2/28.
Despite a late flourish from MS Dhoni, who managed a quick 30 runs off 16 balls, CSK could only muster 146 runs, falling well short of the target. This defeat not only marked RCB's first victory at Chepauk since 2008 but also highlighted the largest margin of defeat for CSK at their home ground.
Hazlewood's performance was particularly commendable, as he finished with figures of 3 wickets for 21 runs in his four overs, effectively dismantling CSK's batting order. In the post-match presentation, he expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "The energy is always great at RCB and it has led into the fielding group, it really lifts us." He also praised his teammate Yash Dayal, emphasizing the importance of having a left-arm pacer in the squad.
RCB's victory is a significant milestone for the franchise, as they have struggled at Chepauk for over a decade. The last time they won there was under the captaincy of Rahul Dravid in 2008, when they narrowly defeated CSK by 14 runs. This win not only boosts RCB's morale but also sends a strong message to the rest of the league about their capabilities this season.
Looking ahead, both teams will need to regroup. CSK, despite their disappointing performance, have a wealth of experience and talent, and they will undoubtedly look to bounce back in their upcoming matches. RCB, on the other hand, will be eager to build on this momentum and continue their winning ways as the IPL season progresses.
As the IPL 2025 season heats up, fans can expect more thrilling encounters as teams vie for supremacy in one of the most competitive leagues in cricket. With this historic win, RCB not only broke a long-standing jinx but also showcased their potential as serious contenders for the title this year.
