CSK vs KKR Injury Update IPL 2025: Ruturaj Gaikwad Out Injured, Who takes charge against Kolkata?

CSK vs KKR Injury Update IPL 2025: The IPL 2025 season is heating up, and the clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in today’s IPL match at Chepauk Stadium is set to be a thrilling encounter. Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-voltage match.

Both teams have a storied rivalry, making this match a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts. The atmosphere at Chepauk is expected to be electric, with fans cheering passionately for their teams.

With CSK's recent struggles and KKR's quest for consistency, this match holds significant importance. The outcome could shape the trajectory of both teams' campaigns in this year's IPL.

Where to Watch CSK vs KKR Live

• TV Broadcast: Star Sports
• Online Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar (India), Willow TV (USA), Sky Sports (UK)
• Mobile Apps: Disney+ Hotstar app

Match Preview and Analysis

The CSK vs KKR match is not just another game; it's a clash of titans with a rich history of rivalry. CSK, under the leadership of MS Dhoni, will look to bounce back from a string of losses. The team has struggled with middle-order batting, having the lowest strike rate (126.04) among teams this season. However, the return of Dhoni as captain could galvanise the squad.

KKR, led by Ajinkya Rahane, are also in the bottom half of the table. Their middle order, with a strike rate of 147.18, has shown promise but lacks consistency. The form of Venkatesh Iyer, who has found his groove with scores of 60 and 45, will be crucial.

Injury Report and Potential Replacements

CSK faces a significant setback with Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out for the season due to an elbow injury. His absence is a blow, as he was CSK's second-highest run-scorer with 122 runs at a strike rate of 150.61. MS Dhoni steps in as captain, bringing his leadership experience back to the forefront.

CSK Injury and Replacement Table

KKR, meanwhile, have no major injury concerns but are dealing with form issues. Andre Russell and Sunil Narine have yet to make a significant impact this season.

Player Forms and Statistics

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

• MS Dhoni: Returning as captain, Dhoni's leadership will be crucial. His experience in high-pressure situations is invaluable.
• Ravindra Jadeja: A key all-rounder, Jadeja's performance with both bat and ball will be pivotal.
• R Ashwin: Known for his spin prowess, Ashwin will be a key player on the spin-friendly Chepauk pitch.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):

• Varun Chakravarthy: The mystery spinner has been in excellent form, making him a crucial player for KKR.
• Venkatesh Iyer: After a slow start, Iyer has found form with scores of 60 and 45, providing stability to the batting line-up.
• Ajinkya Rahane: Leading KKR, Rahane's experience and calm demeanour will be vital in guiding the team.

Squads and Likely Playing XIs

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

• Likely XI: Rahul Tripathi, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Shivam Dube, Vijay Shankar, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (capt, wk), R Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Khaleel Ahmed, Matheesha Pathirana
• Impact Players: MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR):

• Likely XI: Quinton de Kock (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (capt), Venkatesh Iyer, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Moeen Ali/Spencer Johnson, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy
• Impact Players: Varun Chakravarthy, Andre Russell, Ajinkya Rahane

Weather and Pitch Conditions

The weather at Chepauk is expected to be clear, but the pitch remains a mystery. Historically spin-friendly, it could offer assistance to bowlers like Varun Chakravarthy and R Ashwin. The dew factor might play a role in the second innings, affecting the bowlers' grip.