Chennai Super Kings, led by astute Ruturaj Gaikwad have kicked off IPL 2025 with a blend of experienced and rejuvenated talent. After a fifth-place finish in 2024, CSK retooled their squad, retaining core players like MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shivam Dube while welcoming back familiar faces such as Ravichandran Ashwin and Sam Curran. CSK Batting order is comparatively looking weaker in 1st two games with Devon Conway was not the part of XI. CSK’s spin-heavy attack-featuring Ashwin, Jadeja and Noor Ahmed-could thrive on a Guwahati pitch that often assists slower bowlers. Their recent form at home in Chennai suggest they’re finding rhythm except Noor, but this road test against Rajasthan Royals will challenge their adaptability.

Rajasthan Royals, captained by the dynamic Riyan Parag, are coming off a rollercoaster start. After reaching the IPL 2024 Qualifier 2, Rajasthan Royals have retained their aggressive batting core, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson and Riyan Parag, while bolstering their bowling with Jofra Archer and Tushar Deshpande. However an early loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, exposed their bowling depth. Playing in Guwahati, where they’ve historically performed well, RR will aim to leverage home support and their pace attack to unsettle CSK’s Batting.

The Barsapara Stadium pitch is known to favor batsmen early on, but it tends to slow down as the game progresses, bringing spinners into play. With an evening start, dew could assist the chasing side, making the toss a critical factor. Weather-wise, Guwahati is set for a warm 28-30°C evening with no rain forecast, ensuring uninterrupted action.