IPL 2024, CSK vs RCB: Faf & Co. Gear Up to Storm CSK’s Chepauk Fortress

Chennai: The Indian Premier League (IPL) opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will see a fascinating captaincy battle between former teammates. Faf du Plessis, who donned the CSK yellow for several seasons, will lead RCB against his old side at the iconic Chepauk stadium on Friday.

Having been a pivotal member of CSK’s title-winning campaigns in 2018 and 2021, du Plessis’ move to RCB in 2022 didn’t sever his ties with the Super Kings family entirely. Despite captaining sister franchises Jo’burg Super Kings and Texas Super Kings in SA20 and MLC, his bond with CSK remains strong.

Du Plessis boasts a decent record at Chepauk, having scored 553 runs in 19 matches at an average of 36.87. However, his strike rate falls below 120, an area he might aim to improve upon. His most recent innings at the ground, against Mumbai Indians in 2019, saw him score only 6 runs.

On the other hand, Du Plessis has fared well against CSK in previous encounters, amassing 108 runs in three matches with a strike rate exceeding 160.

Du Plessis expressed his admiration for MS Dhoni, acknowledging his immense influence on his leadership skills. He highlighted his time at CSK alongside Dhoni and Stephen Fleming as the most defining aspect of his leadership development.

“MS is the greatest captain ever, and I’m fortunate to have learned from him over the years. Observing him and Stephen Fleming during my younger years as a leader was instrumental in shaping me,” stated Du Plessis.

With Du Plessis at the helm, RCB will be determined to break their 15-year winless streak at Chepauk.