CSK vs SRH – 25 April 2025, Chepauk Stadium

Match Overview

Match 43 of the Indian Premier League 2025 sees Chennai Super Kings lock horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad under the lights at the historic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chepauk, Chennai. Scheduled for Friday, April 25, 2025, the game will begin at 7:30 PM IST. The home side will be led by veteran wicketkeeper-captain MS Dhoni, while the visitors entrust the captaincy to Australia’s pace spearhead Pat Cummins.

Team Form and Outlook

Both franchises have endured a challenging campaign so far, each registering only two victories from eight outings. Chennai Super Kings have struggled to find consistency after a shock nine-wicket defeat to Mumbai Indians, leaving their playoff aspirations hanging by a thread with a negative net run-rate. Likewise, Sunrisers Hyderabad sit in a similar position, having also won just two of their eight fixtures and suffering back-to-back losses that have dented their momentum.

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, CSK have dominated this rivalry. In 21 previous IPL encounters, Chennai have emerged victorious on 15 occasions, whereas SRH have managed only six wins. At Chepauk specifically, CSK boast a 5-0 record against Hyderabad, underscoring their comfort on home turf and the psychological edge they carry into this contest.

Pitch Report and Conditions

The Chepauk surface traditionally aids spin, with the slow, abrasive deck offering turn as the evening progresses. Dew can play a decisive role after the halfway mark, potentially neutralizing the spinners’ grip for the chasing side. Historically, totals in excess of 160 have proven competitive under lights here. Teams winning the toss may still prefer to bat first to put runs on the board before the surface slows further.

Key Battles to Watch

• MS Dhoni vs SRH Pace Battery: Dhoni’s adeptness against the short ball and his calm finishing skills will be tested against Cummins, Shami, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who thrive on reverse swing and disciplined lines.
  
• Pat Cummins vs CSK Top Order: Cummins’ pace and bounce will be crucial in the powerplay, as he aims to disrupt the rhythm of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway, both of whom have been cornerstones of CSK’s batting setup.
  

Men to Watch

• MS Dhoni: Beyond his leadership, Dhoni crosses a personal milestone, playing his 400th T20 match. His experience and match-finishing prowess remain invaluable for CSK.
  
• Ruturaj Gaikwad: The young opener has amassed 394 runs against SRH in IPL encounters, cementing his reputation as a reliable run-getter at Chepauk.
  
• Pat Cummins: As SRH’s captain and premier fast bowler, Cummins has shouldered responsibilities with both ball and leadership, making him a pivotal figure in determining Hyderabad’s fate.
  

Weather and External Factors

Chennai’s coastal climate promises hot and humid conditions, with temperatures hovering around the low 30s Celsius and a chance of humidity-induced fatigue for players and dew helping the second-innings chasing side. The atmospheric conditions could therefore tilt the balance toward the team batting second.

Conclusion

With both teams desperate for a morale-boosting victory to revive their slim playoff hopes, Match 43 at Chepauk promises to be a high-stakes battle. Chennai Super Kings will lean on their fortress-like home record and seasoned campaigners, while Sunrisers Hyderabad must rally around their pace attack and dynamic middle order to script an upset under the Chennai lights.