CSK vs DC IPL 2025: Dhoni’s Return or Delhi’s Domination? Full Match Preview & Key Clashes
CSK vs DC IPL 2025
Today, April 5, 2025, cricket fans are in for a thrilling encounter as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on Delhi Capitals (DC) in the 17th match of IPL 2025. The game will be played at the iconic M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, kicking off at 3:30 PM IST. While CSK will be eager to bounce back on their home turf, DC will aim to continue their red-hot form and stay undefeated.
Let’s dive into the pitch report, expected drama, key battles, and probable playing XIs for this exciting clash.
Toss & Pitch Report: What to Expect at Chepauk
Chepauk has always been a paradise for spinners, and today’s afternoon fixture is expected to follow that trend. Early in the game, batters might get some assistance from the surface, but as the match progresses, the pitch is likely to slow down and aid spin.
Winning the toss could be crucial. The captain calling it right may choose to bat first, aiming to avoid the tricky conditions in the second innings. The toss between CSK’s Ruturaj Gaikwad and DC’s Axar Patel might just be the first twist in what promises to be a drama-filled contest.
CSK’s Challenge: Bouncing Back at Home
CSK hasn’t had the best start to IPL 2025, with two losses in their first three games placing them 8th on the points table. To make matters more interesting, reports suggest that skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad might miss this game due to injury. If that happens, the legendary MS Dhoni could return as captain—a development that’s bound to electrify fans across the country.
With the bat, CSK will look to Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja for some fireworks. In the bowling department, much will depend on Noor Ahmad’s spin and Matheesha Pathirana’s death-over magic.
CSK Probable Playing XI:
- Devon Conway
- Rahul Tripathi
- Rachin Ravindra
- Shivam Dube
- Vijay Shankar
- Ravindra Jadeja
- MS Dhoni (WK, Captain*)
- R. Ashwin
- Noor Ahmad
- Khaleel Ahmed
- Matheesha Pathirana
DC’s Confidence: Momentum on Their Side
Delhi Capitals have had a dream start to their IPL 2025 campaign—two wins in two games and currently sitting second on the table. The opening duo of KL Rahul and Jake Fraser-McGurk has been solid, while Mitchell Starc and Kuldeep Yadav have been lethal with the ball.
Led by Axar Patel, DC appears to be a well-balanced unit. However, their record in Chennai is shaky—something that adds a potential twist to this afternoon’s battle.
DC Probable Playing XI:
- Jake Fraser-McGurk
- Faf du Plessis
- Abhishek Porel (WK)
- KL Rahul
- Tristan Stubbs
- Axar Patel (Captain)
- Ashutosh Sharma
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mitchell Starc
- T. Natarajan
- Mukesh Kumar
Key Storylines to Watch
- Captain Cool’s Comeback?
If Ruturaj is ruled out, all eyes will be on MS Dhoni’s return as captain—a move that could boost CSK’s morale and provide a massive emotional moment for fans. - Dube vs Kuldeep – The Mini-Battle
Shivam Dube’s aggression against spin will be tested by Kuldeep Yadav’s guile. This face-off could swing the game either way. - KL Rahul’s Chepauk Struggles
KL Rahul averages below 30 at Chepauk. Will he rewrite the narrative today or fall to Chennai’s spin trap yet again? - Last-Over Drama Incoming?
Chepauk has a history of close finishes. A potential final-over showdown between Dhoni and Starc could be the perfect climax.
Head-to-Head: CSK Hold the Upper Hand
Out of 30 previous encounters between CSK and DC, Chennai has dominated with 19 wins, while Delhi has won 11. At Chepauk, CSK have won 7 out of 9 matches. In the last five meetings, CSK have claimed victory in 4. History clearly favors the yellow brigade, but can DC rewrite it?
Final Verdict: Who Has the Edge?
This match will be a battle of experience versus momentum. CSK, with their deep understanding of Chepauk conditions and potential MS Dhoni leadership boost, will be looking to turn things around. On the other hand, DC’s current form and all-round strength make them tough to beat.
If the pitch offers turn, CSK might have the advantage—but don’t count DC out. A thriller right down to the final ball seems highly likely.
FAQs – CSK vs DC IPL 2025 (April 5, 2025)
Q1. When and where is the CSK vs DC match taking place?
A: The match is scheduled for April 5, 2025, at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) in Chennai. It will begin at 3:30 PM IST.
Q2. Who is expected to captain CSK in this match?
A: While Ruturaj Gaikwad is the regular captain, reports suggest he may miss the match due to injury. If that happens, MS Dhoni could return as captain.
Q3. What is the pitch condition expected to be at Chepauk?
A: The Chepauk pitch traditionally favors spinners, especially as the game progresses. Batting may be slightly easier in the first innings, but spin is likely to dominate later.
Q4. What is CSK’s record against DC at Chepauk?
A: CSK has a strong record at Chepauk against DC, winning 7 out of 9 matches played at the venue.
Q5. How has Delhi Capitals performed so far in IPL 2025?
A: DC has started the season strong with 2 wins in 2 matches and currently sits at the 2nd position on the points table.
Q6. Which players could be key in today’s match?
A: For CSK, Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni, and Matheesha Pathirana are crucial. For DC, look out for KL Rahul, Mitchell Starc, and Kuldeep Yadav.
Q7. Will the match be a high-scoring one?
A: That depends on how the pitch behaves early on. Chepauk isn’t known for huge scores, but the first innings may see aggressive batting before the pitch slows down.
Q8. Where can I watch the match live?
A: The match will be broadcast live on the official IPL broadcaster’s TV channels and streaming platforms (like JioCinema or Star Sports, depending on your region).
Who do you think will come out on top today—CSK or DC? Drop your predictions in the comments and don’t forget to share this blog with your fellow cricket fans! For more updates on IPL 2025, stay tuned!