The IPL 2024 season is off to an exhilarating start, and we’re gearing up for an exciting clash between the Chennai Super Kings(CSK) and the Gujarat Titans (GT) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk Stadium) on Tuesday. This match marks a rematch of the IPL 2023 finals, where MS Dhoni’s CSK triumphed over Hardik Pandya’s Gujarat Titans to secure their 5th IPL title.
CSK, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, the new captain, kicked off their campaign with a strong win against the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Gaikwad’s leadership debut was impressive, and with the enthusiastic support of the Chennai crowd, CSK is poised to continue their winning momentum against the Gujarat Titans.
The Gujarat Titans showed their mettle in the opening match against the Mumbai Indians. Led by Shubman Gill, the team displayed determination, with bowlers like Mohit Sharma shining under pressure. Azmatullah Omarzai, in his IPL debut, made an immediate impact, contributing to the team’s victory.
Venue and Pitch Report
The pitch at the MA Chidambaram Stadium has traditionally been favorable to teams winning the toss and opting to bowl first. It wouldn’t be surprising if the captain who wins the toss chooses to do the same in this match.
The conditions for the season opener were atypical, presenting a challenge for the home team, much like they faced last season. Stephen Fleming, CSK’s head coach, noted that the pitches at the start of the season are usually “well-prepared” and tend to slow down only as the campaign progresses and the pitches wear and tear.
H2H: Chennai Super Kings(CSK) 2 – 3 Gujarat Titans(GT)
Chennai Super Kings(CSK)
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s track record against GT is impressive, but he has struggled against left-arm pacers in the PowerPlay. However, if he manages to survive the early overs, he can be a threat in the middle overs, especially against Rashid Khan. Keeping him quiet will be crucial for GT’s chances in the match. Shivam Dube’s record against GT suggests he could be a key player in the middle overs despite his struggles. GT’s bowling attack, particularly Rashid Khan and R Sai Kishore, will pose a challenge, especially with their deliveries turning into the left-hander. Dube’s ability to handle these bowlers, along with Sameer Rizvi’s performance against them, will be crucial for CSK.
Gujarat Titans (GT)
GT boasts a formidable bowling lineup, bolstered by the addition of Azmatullah Omarzai, an exceptional swing bowler. Their seamers have been particularly effective in the Powerplay, with 25 wickets since IPL 2023 at an economy rate of 8.35. Omarzai made an immediate impact in GT’s victory against MI, claiming two crucial wickets, both during the Powerplay. His performance adds depth and potency to GT’s bowling unit.
Probable XIIs
CSK: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rachin Ravindra, Ajinkya Rahane, Daryl Mitchell, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Sameer Rizvi, MS Dhoni (wk), Deepak Chahar, Maheesh Theekshana, Mustafizur Rahman, Tushar Deshpande
GT: Shubman Gill (c), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Sai Sudharsan, Vijay Shankar, David Miller, Azmatullah Omarzai/Noor Ahmed, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, R. Sai Kishore, Spencer Johnson, Mohit Sharma, Umesh Yadav/ Shahrukh Khan
Fantasy Picks
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rachin Ravindra, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Sai Sudharsan, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Mohit Sharma, Mustafizur Rahman
Prediction
The Gujarat Titans have had a strong record against CSK in their brief IPL history. With a deep batting lineup and a varied bowling attack, including the option of Noor Ahmad as a third spinner, they seem well-equipped for the match. However, CSK enjoys the home advantage. It’s expected to be a closely contested match, with the Gujarat Titans likely to emerge victorious.
Also Read: https://goworldwide.co.in/rcb-vs-pbks-preview/