As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gear up for their second home game of IPL 2025 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, they do so with growing confidence despite the challenge of facing the unbeaten Delhi Capitals (DC). Both teams have three wins under their belt, but DC remain the only side yet to taste defeat.
RCB’s solid start to the season mirrors their strong early runs in previous editions – they’ve won at least three of their first four games in three of the past five seasons. Yet, only in 2022 did they come close to a top-two finish, falling short due to net run rate. That season was also played away from home due to Covid, so the team’s struggles at their fortress – a venue notorious for being unforgiving to bowlers – have long been a talking point.
This season, however, there’s a noticeable shift. RCB seem to have finally addressed their bowling woes, making their return to the Chinnaswamy, despite a loss to Gujarat Titans (GT) earlier, feel more promising. Backed by a more balanced attack and an in-form middle order, fans are hopeful of a turnaround.
DC: Calm, Composed and Unbeaten
In contrast, Delhi Capitals come into this match with a relaxed rhythm, aided by a less hectic schedule that has given players ample recovery and practice time. The vibe in the DC camp reflects the confidence of an unbeaten side, where everyone is contributing without relying on individual brilliance.
No batter has scored more than 92 (KL Rahul) for them so far, yet they sit at the top of the table, showing the depth and balance of their lineup. Their bowling, too, has been impressive, with Mitchell Starc leading a well-rounded unit.
Key Match-up: RCB’s Power Middle Order vs DC’s Spin Threat
RCB’s revival with the bat has been fueled by a dynamic middle order. Against GT, they turned a dire 42 for 4 into a competitive 169, thanks to the efforts of batters like Rajat Patidar, Jitesh Sharma, and Tim David — all of whom are among the few middle-order players this season averaging over 40 while striking above 150.
However, DC’s spin trio of Kuldeep Yadav (6 wickets at an economy of 6.00), Axar Patel, and Vipraj Nigam could pose a stiff challenge, especially at a venue where spin can play a role if used smartly.
Du Plessis Faces Former Side – If Fit
Faf du Plessis, now with DC after captaining and starring for RCB across two playoff-reaching campaigns (2022 and 2024), is being monitored for a groin strain. He missed the last game but has shown positive signs in training. If passed fit, he is expected to open alongside Jake Fraser-McGurk, with Sameer Rizvi likely to make way.
DC may also welcome back T Natarajan, who is close to full fitness and could replace Mohit Sharma.
Possible XIs
RCB Probable XII:
- Virat Kohli
- Phil Salt
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Rajat Patidar (capt)
- Liam Livingstone
- Jitesh Sharma (wk)
- Tim David
- Krunal Pandya
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Josh Hazlewood
- Yash Dayal
- Suyash Sharma / Swapnil Singh / Rasikh Salam
(Impact Player: Depending on bowling conditions)
DC Probable XII:
- Faf du Plessis / Sameer Rizvi
- Jake Fraser-McGurk
- Abishek Porel
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Tristan Stubbs
- Axar Patel (capt)
- Vipraj Nigam
- Mitchell Starc
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mukesh Kumar
- Mohit Sharma / T Natarajan
- Ashutosh Sharma
As RCB look to defend their turf and build on a promising start, and DC aim to extend their unbeaten run, this clash at Chinnaswamy promises fireworks – and possibly, a few turning points in the early season narrative.
