IPL 2025: 3 Key battles to watch out for in the CSK vs PBKS Match 22

Punjab Kings have begun their campaign on a promising note, winning two of their first three games. Under the leadership of a red-hot Shreyas Iyer, PBKS appear to be firing on all cylinders. Their squad has shown both consistency and intent, and the atmosphere in the camp is electric with positivity. With their top order delivering and the bowling unit holding steady, PBKS look like genuine contenders this season.

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In contrast, the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings have struggled to find their rhythm. After starting their season with a win, CSK have faltered in successive matches. Their inability to chase down totals and lacklustre batting performances have left fans and experts questioning the team’s form and strategy. Currently placed ninth on the points table with a net run rate of -0.891, the men in yellow need to regroup and reassess quickly if they want to turn their season around.

Rachin Ravindra vs Arshdeep Singh

Rachin Ravindra has had a decent start to this edition of the IPL. The swashbuckling all-rounder has scored 109 runs from four games. With just one failure so far, he has emerged as the most important batter alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad in a thin Chennai batting lineup.

However, he will have to deal with the threat of Arshdeep Singh, who has been Punjab’s — and Team India’s most vital cog in the bowling unit. Arshdeep will play a crucial role in containing Rachin during this important encounter against CSK.

Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Marco Jansen

Apart from Rachin Ravindra, Ruturaj Gaikwad is the other batter who has looked in fine touch. However, his recent dismissals to quality pacers like Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood have exposed a vulnerability against short-pitched bowling.

Luckily for Punjab Kings, they have Marco Jansen in their arsenal. The tall left-arm seamer can trouble Ruturaj with sharp bouncers and trap him when he attempts the pull shot. It will be intriguing to see how Ruturaj handles the “Jansen problem.”

Shreyas Iyer vs Noor Ahmed

Noor Ahmed has arguably been the most valuable player for the Chennai Super Kings. The Afghan spinner has a knack for taking wickets at crucial stages of the game. PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer is well known for playing spin effectively, making this a fascinating battle in the middle overs.

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On the other hand, Noor will carry a lot of responsibility as his team struggles to find form. It’s high time he takes matters into his own hands and delivers another match-winning performance.

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