CSK vs RR, 62nd Match at Delhi, IPL, May 20 2025 - Full Scorecard

 

CSK vs RR – A Rivalry of Legacy and Grit

In the colorful tapestry of the Indian Premier League (IPL), few rivalries have evolved as dramatically and compellingly as the one between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). While they may not have the explosive tension of CSK-MI or RCB-KKR, this matchup has developed its own flair—a contest between the clinical consistency of CSK and the unpredictable brilliance of RR.

Clash of Contrasts

CSK, led for years by the calm and composed MS Dhoni, has always been the embodiment of strategic discipline. They rely on experience, clarity of roles, and deep match awareness. Rajasthan Royals, on the other hand, are the IPL's original underdogs, having won the inaugural season in 2008 with a team of lesser-knowns led by the legendary Shane Warne. Over the years, RR has often placed their faith in young Indian talent and aggressive overseas picks.

Head-to-Head Summary

As of the 2025 IPL season, the head-to-head stats lean slightly in CSK’s favor, but RR has caused significant upsets over the years:

• Total Matches: 30+

• CSK Wins: ~15-17

• RR Wins: ~13-15

Especially in the last few seasons, RR has emerged as a serious threat, boasting a bowling attack powered by Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal, and young pace sensations, while their batting is bolstered by the likes of Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, and Riyan Parag.

Recent Encounters

In the 2025 IPL, the recent CSK vs RR match at Jaipur was a thriller. RR posted a challenging total of 190, with Samson and Parag putting on a strong show. CSK’s chase started well, thanks to Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway, but a mid-innings collapse set the stage for a nail-biting finish. It was Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni (yes, still delivering in the death overs) who almost pulled off a stunning chase, only to fall short by a handful of runs.

The return fixture at Chepauk, however, was a different story. CSK dominated from start to finish, with Matheesha Pathirana’s deadly yorkers and Moeen Ali’s spin tying RR down to a modest score, which CSK chased comfortably.

Key Battles to Watch

• Sanju Samson vs Deepak Chahar: Power vs Swing.

• Jadeja vs Buttler: Experience vs Aggression.

• Gaikwad vs Boult: Patience vs Left-arm pace.

Legacy in Motion

While CSK is transitioning into a post-Dhoni era, with Ruturaj Gaikwad taking on more leadership, RR is shaping a core around Sanju Samson and a potent bowling lineup. Both teams are in evolution, but their clashes still carry the weight of history.

For fans, CSK vs RR is not just a match—it's a window into the soul of IPL cricket: talent, tenacity, and a touch of unpredictability.