Will CSK Play Shreyas Gopal Against RCB in the IPL 2025 Southern Derby?
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) kicked off their IPL 2025 campaign with a victory over Mumbai Indians at Chepauk. However, leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal was not included in the playing XI.
CSK acquired Gopal in the 2025 mega auction for his base price of ₹30 lakhs, but he began the season on the bench despite being in good form.
With their next match also set to take place at Chepauk against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the team management may consider giving him a chance alongside their three frontline spinners.
Why CSK Might Consider Playing Shreyas Gopal
Chepauk is known for its spin-friendly pitches. Against Mumbai, CSK relied on three primary spinners—Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Noor Ahmad. All three delivered strong performances, with Noor Ahmad picking up four crucial wickets. Given the conditions, CSK might be tempted to include another specialist spinner in the squad.
However, fitting Gopal into the lineup won’t be easy. The current spin trio is expected to retain their spots, and Gopal’s inclusion would only be possible if CSK opts for a four-spinner strategy or brings him in as an Impact Player based on match conditions.
Additionally, the team already has part-time spin options in Rachin Ravindra and Deepak Hooda, reducing the need for an extra specialist spinner. That said, Gopal’s impressive record against RCB could give him an edge in selection.
Shreyas Gopal’s Record Against RCB
Shreyas Gopal has an outstanding track record against RCB, making him a strong contender for a spot in the playing XI. Over eight matches, he has taken 15 wickets at an exceptional average of 12.52 and an economy rate of 6.71—elite numbers in T20 cricket, especially against a high-powered batting lineup like RCB.
One of his most memorable performances came in 2019 when he claimed a hat-trick against RCB while playing for Rajasthan Royals. In that match, he dismissed Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Marcus Stoinis in consecutive deliveries, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
- Matches vs RCB: 8
- Wickets: 15
- Average: 12.52
- Economy Rate: 6.71
Strong Recent Form in Domestic Cricket
Gopal has been in excellent form in domestic cricket, further strengthening his case for selection. During the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he picked up a hat-trick for Karnataka against Baroda, dismissing Shashwat Rawat, Krunal Pandya, and Hardik Pandya in the same over. He also took a fourth wicket in that spell, removing Bhanu Pania.
So far in the ongoing SMAT season, Gopal has taken 10 wickets, and he played a key role in Karnataka’s opening Ranji Trophy win last month. After spending a season with Kerala, he has returned to Karnataka and made an immediate impact, proving that he is in rhythm and ready to contribute if given the opportunity.
CSK’s Spin Options
- Ravindra Jadeja – Left-arm orthodox, guaranteed starter
- Ravichandran Ashwin – Off-spinner, guaranteed starter
- Noor Ahmad – Left-arm wrist-spinner, took 4 wickets vs MI
- Rachin Ravindra – Part-time left-arm spinner
- Deepak Hooda – Part-time off-spinner
- Shreyas Gopal – Specialist leg-spinner
Gopal’s exceptional numbers against RCB and his recent form make him a tempting option, particularly on a spin-friendly surface like Chepauk. However, with three established spinners already performing well, it will be challenging to accommodate him in the playing XI.
The most likely scenario for his inclusion could be as an Impact Player, where he can be brought in based on pitch conditions or match requirements. If the pitch appears extremely dry and slow, CSK might consider fielding four spinners, opening up a spot for Gopal. Otherwise, he may have to wait for his first opportunity of the season.
Shreyas Gopal’s T20 Stats
Overall T20 Career:
- Matches: 104
- Wickets: 124
- Average: 19.46
- Economy Rate: 7.48
- Five-Wicket Hauls: 3
- Best Bowling Figures: 5/11
IPL Career:
- Matches: 52
- Wickets: 52
- Average: 25.94
- Economy Rate: 8.16
- Best Bowling Figures: 4/16
Predicted CSK Playing XI vs RCB:
Playing XI:
Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rachin Ravindra, Deepak Hooda, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, MS Dhoni (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, Nathan Ellis, Khaleel Ahmed.
Impact Player Options:
- If batting first: Shreyas Gopal
- If bowling first: Rahul Tripathi
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Conclusion:
While Shreyas Gopal’s strong numbers against RCB and recent form make him an attractive option, his selection depends on CSK’s strategy for the match. If the pitch looks highly spin-friendly, he might get a chance. Otherwise, he may have to wait for an opportunity later in the tournament.
