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CSK vs RCB: Match preview, TV listing, stats and more
22 Mar 2019
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019 season is finally here and defending champions Chennai Super Kings will be up against Royal Challengers Bangalore in match number one.
The action is back in Chennai after almost three seasons and a packed stadium is expected to cheer for the hosts.
Virat Kohli-led RCB will be out to stop title holders CSK.
Here's the detailed match preview.
Head-to-head meetings between the two sides
Fact
The two sides have met 22 times in the IPL. CSK lead the show with 14 wins under their belt. RCB have played seven times at the Chepauk Stadium. They mustered a single victory in 2014.
CSK to rely on several impact players
CSK
The presence of Kedar Jadhav is of huge significance for CSK.
He can be an ideal finisher and also bowl a couple if needed.
CSK will also bank on utility players like Suresh Raina, Dwayne Bravo and Ravindra Jadeja to bolster their all-round show.
Shane Watson is a dangerous prospect at the top and MS Dhoni provides much needed comfort in the middle order.
A look at CSK's options against RCB
Options for CSK
With Lungi Ngidi ruled out of IPL 2019, the hosts will look up to the experience of Mohit Sharma to guide them at the death.
Shardul Thakur, who had an excellent IPL 11 season, will add support in the pace department.
Harbhajan Singh could be handed the ball as the main spinner of the side.
Sam Billings can provide the aggression with the bat.
RCB's middle order the focus in mouth-watering clash
RCB
RCB will rely heavily upon trusted assets Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers.
The two players have the desired capability to thrash an all-round CSK bowling attack.
A lot of focus will be upon the middle order.
Shimron Hetmyer can power the side along with Akshdeep Nath.
Two all-rounders in the form of Shivam Dube and Moeen Ali can provide an extra cushion.
A look at RCB's bowling options
RCB bowling
RCB will turn up to the likes of Umesh Yadav and Tim Southee in the pace department.
Both have the ability to get wickets and their experience will be crucial at the death.
Yuzvendra Chahal is set to be the main spinner, with Ali giving support.
Mohammed Siraj comes in as the final pacer.
He needs to ensure that he doesn't leak runs.
Timing, TV listing and players to watch out for
Info
For CSK, Watson is their main man. He has been in superb form with the bat across global T20 leagues.
ABD holds the key for RCB. He can change the complexion of the match.
The match will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network and is set for a 8:00 PM start.
One can stream the match live on the Hotstar app.
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