• Match: Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, 1st Match, Indian Premier League 2024
• Date and Time: March 22, 02:30 pm GMT / 08:30 pm BD / 08:00 pm local time
• Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to encounter a setback in their upcoming game and potentially the initial stages of the tournament due to Devon Conway’s absence owing to a thumb injury. Despite his struggles in 2024, Conway exhibited exceptional form in the 2023 IPL, tallying six half-centuries, including a top score of 92 not out.

Nevertheless, CSK boasts a formidable lineup led by the seasoned MS Dhoni, expected to anchor the finisher’s role, alongside the versatile Moeen Ali, known for his clean striking ability. Supported by Daryl Mitchell’s impressive form and Ruturaj Gaikwad’s consistent performances last season, CSK appears well-prepared to compensate for Conway’s absence.

Moreover, the addition of Rachin Ravindra, a promising talent from New Zealand, adds depth to CSK’s squad, offering proficiency in both batting and bowling departments. With a balanced bowling attack and Dhoni’s composed leadership, CSK stands poised for a strong start in front of their home crowd.

On the flip side, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) seek redemption after falling short of the playoffs last season. Inspired by their women’s team’s recent success in the WPL, RCB is determined to bounce back.

Boasting a star-studded lineup comprising both Indian and international talents, RCB’s depth is evident. Notably, Tom Curran, a consistent performer in various franchise tournaments, may not secure a starting position for this match.

With formidable batters such as Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli leading the charge, RCB aims to unleash an aggressive onslaught against CSK’s bowling attack right from the beginning of their innings.

Chennai Super Kings: MS Dhoni (c & wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Mustafizur Rahman.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Faf du Plessis (c), Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Rajat Patidar, Will Jacks, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Akash Deep, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, Swapnil Singh.

Who will win the toss? – Chennai Super Kings
Who will win? – Chennai Super Kings

Captain: Virat Kohli
Vice-Captain: Daryl Mitchell

MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suyyash Prabhudessai, Glenn Maxwell, Daryl Mitchell, Ravindra Jadeja, Faf du Plessis, Maheesh Theekshana, Mohammed Siraj, Deepak Chahar.

In the previous IPL season, captains frequently chose to field first, a trend that is anticipated to persist in the forthcoming opening fixture between CSK and RCB. Given the typical uncertainty surrounding pitch conditions in the early matches of the tournament, both teams are likely to favor bowling first in Match 1.

This celebrated venue has hosted numerous iconic matches, marking significant moments in IPL history. With favorable conditions for both spinners and pacers who can effectively utilize variations, the pitch ensures substantial turn and grip.

A competitive total at this venue typically ranges around 180 runs, considering the historical context of the ground. Across all 16 previous seasons, the average score stands at 163.18, underscoring the competitive nature of matches held here.

Friday evening in Chennai is forecasted to bring clear skies, ensuring consistent conditions throughout the match. The temperature is expected to remain stable at 29 degrees Celsius, with a consistent humidity level of 75%. No significant changes in weather conditions are anticipated between innings.

• Stadium: MA Chidambaram Stadium
• City: Chennai
• Capacity: 50, 000
• Ends: Anna Pavilion End, V Pattabhiraman Gate End
• Hosts to: Tamil Nadu, Chennai Super Kings