IPL 2025: CSK vs KKR Match Preview – Eden Gardens Showdown
In Match 57 of IPL 2025, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. This encounter is crucial for KKR, who must win to keep their playoff hopes alive, while CSK aims to end their losing streak and play the role of spoilers.
CSK vs KKR: Head-to-Head and Recent Form
Historically, CSK has dominated this rivalry, winning 19 out of 30 matches against KKR. However, in their last encounter earlier this season, KKR secured an 8-wicket victory over CSK. Currently, CSK is on a five-match losing streak, placing them ninth in the standings. In contrast, KKR has 11 points and needs to win all remaining matches to stay in playoff contention.
Eden Gardens Pitch and Weather Conditions
Eden Gardens has been a high-scoring venue this season, with an average first-innings score of 203. The pitch favors batters but also offers assistance to spinners as the game progresses. Teams batting first have won four out of five matches here this season.Weather forecasts predict a 55% chance of rain, which could impact the match outcome.
Key Players to Watch
KKR: Andre Russell’s return to form is a significant boost. Captain Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership will be pivotal in this must-win game.
CSK: Veteran MS Dhoni leads the team, aiming to inspire a turnaround. Youngster Ayush Mhatre has been a standout performer amid the team’s struggles.
Predicted Playing XIs
KKR:
- Sunil Narine
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Ajinkya Rahane (c)
- Angkrish Raghuvanshi
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Rinku Singh
- Andre Russell
- Rovman Powell
- Anukul Roy
- Harshit Rana
- Vaibhav Arora
Impact Sub: Varun Chakaravarthy
CSK:
- Shaik Rasheed
- Ayush Mhatre
- Sam Curran
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Dewald Brevis
- Shivam Dube
- Deepak Hooda/Urvil Patel
- MS Dhoni (c & wk)
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Noor Ahmad
- Khaleel Ahmed
📊 Match Prediction
Given the pitch conditions and KKR’s current form, they appear to have the upper hand. However, CSK’s experience and desire to end their losing streak could make this a closely contested match.