Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Preview: Royal rivalry to be rekindled

The old rivalry between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals will be rekindled when the sides meet on Monday. This match #12 of the Indian Premier League 2021 will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Chennai have a 1-1 win-loss record in the season after a seven-wicket loss to Delhi Capitals was followed by a six-wicket win over Punjab Kings. Intriguingly, the Royals also have a 1-1 record with a four-run loss against Punjab Kings followed by a three-wicket win over Delhi Capitals.

The constant positive factor for Chennai this season has been Moeen Ali (82 runs @ SR 149.09, one wicket @ ER 8.33). His promotion to number three has been a steady influence. Suresh Raina may have flopped in the previous match, but he is an equally important player for the Chennai side.

Deepak Chahar’s mesmerising 4/13 in the massive win over Punjab underlined his new-ball skills. The Super Kings, however, will demand more from Shardul Thakur (two wickets, ER 11.47).

Lungi Ngidi is out of isolation and has joined the squad, although it’s not entirely clear if he will be selected.

The Royals have been completely dependent on captain Sanju Samosn (123 runs, SR 186.36) although the return to form of David Miller (62 off 43) is a great sign. In Ben Stokes’ absence, the team wants more from Jos Buttler, who is yet to fire (27 runs, SR 135.00).

Jofra Archer’s continued absence has put pressure on the bowling resources, but the left-arm seamers Jaydev Unadkat (three wickets, ER 3.75) and Chetan Sakariya (three wickets, ER 8.00) have responded well. Chris Morris (three wickets at ER 9.71, 38 runs at SR 172.72) will once again be their go-to man.

Ben Stokes is out of the competition, while Jofra Archer has only resumed mild training.

Chennai Super Kings hold a 14-9 win-loss record against Rajasthan Royals in the 23 IPL matches played between the sides. However, it is the Royals who have won both the matches last season.

Samson’s masterly 74 off 32 balls set the Royals up for a 16-run win in the first match, while the second match saw Buttler smash a match-winning 70* off just 48 balls to lead the Royals to a seven-wicket win.

Both teams have shown their batting inconsistencies, although Rajasthan Royals have displayed better firepower. It could be a battle of the top-orders as Chennai Super Kings’ opening bowlers will look to keep the Royals’ hard hitters under check.

Rajasthan Royals have won the last two matches against Chennai Super Kings, but haven’t won three in a row since the first season of IPL. Sanju Samson’s men have an edge on paper, but the inconsistent showing with the bat pegs them down. Chennai haven’t fared any better, especially with MS Dhoni struggling for impact. Back the Royals to score the most 6s in the match and if Buttler gets going they may even race away with the best powerplay score of the match. As for individual players, back Faf to score at least 25 runs.