As Royal Challengers Bengaluru prepare to host Chennai Super Kings in a crucial IPL 2025 clash on Saturday, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that a top-two finish is essential for RCB if they are to break their long-standing title drought.
With 14 points from 10 games, RCB sit third on the table, and a win over CSK would take them to the top with 16 points. Chopra noted that while the win would all but ensure a playoff berth, it’s Qualifier 1 that Patidar’s men must aim for.
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“RCB have never won in Chennai since 2008, but they did that job. At home, it’s even-stevens,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel. “They can very well qualify tonight, but the ‘Q’ won’t be next to their name just yet. Still, 16 points with three games to go is a solid position.”
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However, Chopra warned that history is not on RCB’s side if they fail to finish in the top two. “Only once, in 2016, has a team outside the top two won the title. So if RCB want to lift the trophy, they must finish in the top two.”
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Chopra also highlighted Rajat Patidar’s under-the-radar captaincy but called for more consistency with the bat. “Patidar captains very well but hasn’t been in the limelight. He started strong but needs to get back among the runs. I’m hopeful he’ll deliver when it matters most.”
