RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik praises Virat Kohli’s hunger for improvement, calling his current form one of the best ever. CSK’s Rachin Ravindra also emerges as a key player ahead of the high-voltage IPL clash
🔥 Kohli’s Intense Preparation Ahead of RCB vs CSK Clash
As Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) prepares to face Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Virat Kohli is leaving no stone unturned. Under the scorching Chennai sun at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Kohli was seen perfecting his strokes long before the floodlights were on.
RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik, clearly impressed by Kohli’s commitment, shared:
“I spoke to him just now as I came out, and he said that he wanted to work on one more shot. At this point of time, to work on one more shot tells you the hunger he has. He’s a special player. The way I see it, he’s batting as confidently and as well as he has ever done in IPL.”
Despite his incredible form, Kohli’s record against CSK at Chepauk has been somewhat underwhelming. His highest score against CSK spinners at this venue is 58, with a strike rate of 113. Yet, Karthik remains confident in Kohli’s abilities.
📊 Kohli’s Performance Against CSK:
- Highest Score at Chepauk: 58
- Strike Rate Against CSK Spinners: 113 (Below his usual standards)
- Best Performance Against CSK: Unbeaten 90 off 52 balls in Dubai (2021).
🏆 Kohli’s Consistency Against Spin
Dinesh Karthik highlighted Kohli’s prowess against spin in recent tournaments, noting:
“Kohli scored some serious runs in the recent Champions Trophy. He has batted well against spinners in the recent past, especially in white-ball cricket. He was the second-highest run-getter in Dubai, and that doesn’t come without playing spin. I believe right now he’s batting as well as he has ever done.”
🟡 CSK’s Street-Smart Weapon: Rachin Ravindra
While Kohli continues to chase perfection, CSK’s Rachin Ravindra is emerging as a key player to watch. The young New Zealand all-rounder has demonstrated his talent against spin, making him a valuable asset for CSK’s batting lineup.
Rachin Ravindra’s Notable Performances:
- IPL 2024 vs RCB: 61 off 37 balls.
- IPL 2025 Opener vs Mumbai Indians: Match-winning *65 (unbeaten).
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming praised Ravindra’s development:
“His game against spin has always been very good. His development over the last 12 months has been excellent. His knock against MI was superb in terms of controlling the tempo of the game. He’s got the power and he’s street-smart.”
⚔️ What To Expect From The RCB vs CSK Clash
As Kohli looks to overcome his struggles at Chepauk, CSK will be banking on their rising star Rachin Ravindra to keep the momentum going. With Kohli’s hunger for improvement and Ravindra’s potential as a game-changer, this contest promises to be a thrilling encounter.
