Match 46 of IPL 2024 is set to be an exciting battle at Chepauk Stadium, where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will face off against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). SRH holds the third spot on the points table, with a strong recent performance of 4 wins in their last 5 matches.
However, they are coming off a loss to RCB at home. In contrast, CSK is in fifth place and struggling to regain momentum after 2 consecutive losses, with an overall record of 2 wins and 3 losses in their last 5 games.
Historically, CSK has the upper hand over SRH, winning 15 out of 21 matches, including 3 out of their last 5 encounters. When it comes to batting first, CSK has won 6 times, while SRH has only managed 2 victories. Conversely, chasing a target, CSK has secured 9 wins compared to SRH's 4. This matchup is not just about the points but a test of strategy and form as both teams look to improve their standings.
CSK's bowlers have performed better than SRH bowlers this season, particularly at home, where they have secured victories in 3 out of 4 matches.
The betting tip is...
Team with Top Bowler - CSK
Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has also shown excellent form, having scored 296 against SRH and is also in contention for the Orange Cap this season. MS Dhoni has scored 425 runs against SRH over the years, showing his effectiveness in these matchups.
Additionally, his strike rate this season is an impressive 260, although he has faced very limited number of balls. Shivam Dube is another crucial player for CSK, with 311 runs in 8 matches at a strike rate of 170 and an average of 51.83.
On the bowling side, Deepak Chahar has taken 10 wickets against SRH while Shardul Thakur and Ravindra Jadeja have each claimed 8 wickets. Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana have been standout performers, with 12 wickets in 7 matches and 11 wickets in 5 matches, respectively this season.
Gaikwad and Dube are the in-form batters.
Predicted Lineup: Gaikwad (c), Rahane, Mitchell/Rachin, M Ali, Dube, Jadeja, Dhoni (wk), Chahar, Deshpande, Mustafizur, Pathirana
Abhishek Sharma, who has scored 234 runs against CSK in past encounters, will be crucial for setting up a solid start. His partnership with Travis Head has been particularly effective in establishing a strong foundation early in the innings. Heinrich Klaasen, known for hitting the most sixes for SRH so far, will also be a vital player in boosting the team's scoring rate with Samad and Nitish Reddy.
On the bowling front, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and T Natarajan bring experience to SRH's attack with 10 and 9 wickets against CSK. Natarajan, hailing from Tamil Nadu, is familiar with the Chennai venue and has performed well recently, taking 12 wickets in just 6 matches this season.
Pat Cummins also adds depth to the bowling lineup with 10 wickets in 8 matches. However, Bhuvneshwar Kumar will need to improve his performance at the death overs, where he has struggled to contain runs and take wickets.
Abhishek, Head, and Klaasen are the key players.
Predicted Lineup: Abhishek, Head, Markram, Klaasen (wk), Samad, Nitish, Cummins (c), Bhuvi, Unadkat, Markande, Natarajan
Given the current form and historical data, Chennai Super Kings are the favorites heading into this matchup against SunRisers Hyderabad at Chepauk Stadium. CSK's strong batting lineup, spearheaded by Ruturaj Gaikwad and supported by Shivam Dube, appears formidable.
Additionally, their bowlers like Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana have been in good touch this season. Despite SRH's strong squad and Natarajan's local knowledge and recent form, CSK's historical dominance at this venue, having never lost to SRH in Chennai with 4 wins to none suggests they will extend their winning streak.
Expect a closely contested match, but CSK should have the upper hand.