As the IPL 2025 heats up, former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has issued a warning to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as they prepare to face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 28 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. RCB is set to take on CSK in their second match of the tournament, aiming to overcome a historical challenge.
RCB’s struggle at Chepauk
RCB has not beaten CSK in Chennai since 2008, their only win in the inaugural season of the IPL. This statistic highlights the tough challenge that the Rajat Patidar-led side faces. Chepauk has long been a stronghold for CSK, known for its unique pitch conditions that favor their bowlers, especially the spinners.
Watson’s Insight on Team Strategy
Speaking about the upcoming match, Watson emphasised the need for RCB to adapt their team composition to counter CSK’s strengths. “It’s going to be a huge challenge for RCB to go to Chepauk, especially given the quality of bowlers CSK have at their disposal. But make no mistake — Chepauk is a fortress,” Watson commented on JioHotstar. He acknowledged the impact of CSK’s spinners, including Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Noor Ahmad, who bowled impressively in their opening game against Mumbai Indians.
The spin factor
Watson noted that CSK’s setup is designed to excel at Chepauk, with their spin trio being important. “Just look at the three spinners who bowled brilliantly in their opening game… They are going to be a real handful on that surface,” he added. Noor Ahmad, in particular, made a strong debut, taking four wickets for just 18 runs and earning the Player of the Match award.
A fierce rivalry
RCB has historically struggled at Chepauk, winning just five out of 14 matches played there. As RCB and CSK prepare to reignite one of the IPL’s fiercest rivalries, RCB will need to strategise carefully to overcome CSK’s spin threat and break their long-standing drought at the venue.
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