CSK have bowling plans to sort

This could well be a prelude to the first qualifier. Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals are at the top of the points table and could be, by the end of the week, playing the qualifiers and meeting each other. Delhi Capitals aren’t yet favourites, but if they can beat CSK, the odds of which stand at 1.93, it will add to their confidence.

The Dubai wicket should suit Delhi Capitals more than CSK, and beating DC, the odds of which are at 1.84 might not be that easy for Chennai. They have been reliant on their top-order for runs, but CSK’s task will be cut out against a strong Delhi bowling unit.

Overall record backs Chennai, recent Delhi

Overall, Chennai have 15 wins and nine losses in head-to-head games against Delhi Capitals. Since 2020, though, Delhi have won all three matches against CSK in the IPL. In 2019, though, CSK won all three matches against Delhi.

RECOMMENDED BET: Despite a strong squad, especially on the batting front, Delhi have a very strong bowling attack and are expected to beat CSK. The odds of it stand at 1.93

When these teams met earlier in the first leg, a 138-run opening stand from Prithvi Shaw and Shikhar Dhawan paved the way for an emphatic win for Delhi Capitals. 

Keep an eye on… 

Ruturaj Gaikwad: He is exceptional against high pace and is still basking in the glory of his maiden IPL hundred. His form will be crucial to Chennai Super Kings’ chances in this game against Delhi.

Rabada, Nortje and Avesh: The pace trio in the Delhi setup are high on pace and terrific in terms of impact. They have contrasting strengths and can be potent against a team like Chennai where several batters are weak against high pace.

TIP: Faf du Plessis knows the South African pace duo in the Delhi setup well, and plays high pace well too. He has odds of 3.45 to be top-scorer for CSK.