CSK Struggles at Chepauk as RCB Secures First Win in 17 Years

Chennai Super Kings suffered a 50-run loss against Royal Challengers Bangalore at Chepauk, marking their biggest defeat at home. After the match, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming visited the pitch with a ground staff member, highlighting concerns over the unpredictable nature of the surface.

Just five days earlier, a spin-friendly pitch helped CSK edge Mumbai Indians. However, against RCB, seam movement, uneven bounce, and dual-paced deliveries undid CSK’s plans.

"There’s no home advantage at Chepauk," said Fleming. "We’ve been honest — we’re struggling to read the wickets here. It’s not the Chepauk of old where we could rely on spin. We’re having to adjust every game."

Tactics Misfire as Conditions Shift Unexpectedly

CSK expected dew to aid their chase of 196, but the pitch turned sluggish instead. “It got tacky, and we misread it,” Fleming noted. “We thought it would skid on, but it got slower.”

Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad echoed that sentiment, calling 170 a par score on the surface. “The pitch wasn’t easy to bat on. When chasing 20 runs extra, the approach changes. It got sticky, and the new ball didn’t come on,” he said.

RCB Batting Line-Up Fires to Secure Historic Win

RCB’s top order laid the foundation for a dominant total. Phil Salt smashed 32 off 16 balls, setting the tone in the PowerPlay. Devdutt Padikkal and Rajat Patidar continued the charge, with Patidar scoring a crucial 51 off 32 balls.

Salt explained his role clearly: “I’m here to take pressure off Virat and go aggressive early. On pitches like this, you must maximize the seam overs before spin takes control.”

Salt praised captain Rajat Patidar for his leadership and batting. “I haven’t seen anyone play spin like he does. He’s calm, smart, and handled the bowlers really well tonight.”

End of Chepauk Fortress?

The loss raises fresh questions for CSK’s team composition, particularly their spin-heavy approach. With Chepauk no longer offering the expected turn, adapting to changing surfaces may become crucial for CSK as the season progresses.

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