IPL 2025: CSK host KKR as both teams target course-correction

Five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are fast reaching a stage where they need to put a couple of wins together to resurrect their campaign that has witnessed four defeats in five matches so far. On Friday, they host defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders , (KKR) who are in equal need of course-correction, having faced three defeats in five outings. As a result, CSK languish at the ninth position in current standings, while KKR hold the sixth spot.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!CSK seek to reverse their fortunes at Chepauk, where they have struggled to maintain their historical dominance this season. The team's traditional home ground advantage at Chepauk, which previously contributed significantly to their success, has diminished. The altered pitch characteristics have presented new challenges in their assessment and strategic planning.The home team finds some encouragement from their batting performance in their previous match against Punjab Kings, despite an 18-run defeat while chasing a demanding target of 219 in Mullanpur. The team finds encouragement in the recent performances of Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra and Shivam Dube, who have managed to score valuable runs, providing a positive aspect during these challenging circumstances. Following his unsuccessful innings against PBKS, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad aims to deliver a strong performance on Friday, whilst hoping for substantial support from his batting colleagues across the order.The pace-bowling unit remains consistent with Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary and Matheesha Pathirana leading the attack, whilst the spin department features R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Noor Ahmad, who aim to deliver effective performances. CSK spinners need to find success at their home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium, where they have historically maintained supremacy.KKR, still reeling from their close defeat to Lucknow Super Giants, seek to return to winning form before their tournament prospects diminish further.Their bowling unit, which struggled against LSG's batting lineup at Eden Gardens, aims for better results at Chepauk. The batting responsibilities rest with Quinton de Kock, Sunil Narine, captain Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Andre Russell and Rinku Singh, who are expected to deliver strong performances to revive their campaign.