Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will clash with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Match 68 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The two teams will square off at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday (May 18). This encounter is critical for both teams as they vie for a Playoffs spot in the intense IPL competition.

RCB vs CSK: Overview and key players

CSK, led by Ruturaj Gaikwadwill rely on their experienced players like MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja and Deepak Chahar. With a mix of seasoned veterans and young talent, CSK aims to secure their place in the playoffs with a victory in this match.

RCB, captained by Faf du Plessisboasts powerful hitters such as Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and the all-rounder Cameron Green. The team has shown resilience and strength throughout the tournament, and a win with a decent margin could propel them past CSK for the final playoff berth.

Mohmmad Kaif’s recommendation against MS Dhoni

Ahead of the mouthwatering clash, former cricketer Mohammad Kaif shared his insights on the strategies RCB could employ against Dhoni during the death overs. During a discussion on Star Sports, Kaif emphasized that Mohammed Siraj is a better option for this critical period for RCB due to his pace. He noted that Dhoni is well-prepared for yorkers and suggested avoiding them. Instead, Kaif recommended using slower balls and short-pitched deliveries to keep Dhoni off balance.

“(Mohammed) Siraj has speed. He comes running in. 130 kph bowlers will not work against Dhoni. You need balls to be bowled at 140-145 kph and don’t bowl yorkers. He remains ready for the yorker. We have spoken about the short ball, bowl the slower ones, and keep it away,” Kaif said.

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Challenges with using spinners at the death

Kaif also mentioned that using a spinner like Karan Sharma at the death would not be effective against Dhoni. He highlighted that only bowlers who are in rhythm and have confidence can handle Dhoni’s aggressive batting at the end of the innings.

“Some teams have started using the spin option. They are bringing Rashid Khan or Rahul Chahar in the 19th or 20th over in front of Dhoni. The tactic has worked to a certain extent but I believe Karn Sharma won’t be able to do that job. Karn Sharma’s problem is that he wasn’t given chances to play regularly earlier,” the 43-year-old added.

“He will be under pressure that he is unable to make his place in the XI. He has bowled well in the last few matches but don’t give the 19th or 20th over to Karn Sharma. He will be under pressure and Dhoni will dominate. He can hit five or six sixes in an over. Only proper bowlers who are in rhythm and have confidence and form can save you from Dhoni’s havoc,” Kaif concluded.

Dhoni’s stellar form in IPL 2024

In IPL 2024, Dhoni has been in remarkable form, scoring 136 runs at a striking rate of 226.66 across 10 innings. He has only been dismissed twice, with one of those dismissals being a run-out. Dhoni has hit 11 fours and 12 sixes, showcasing his ability to finish games with explosive batting. His performance has been crucial for CSK, and his presence at the crease is always a significant factor in any match.

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