It is the clash between the top two teams of IPL 2021. Delhi will take on CSK in an all-mighty clash to book a spot in the finals. DC arrive into this match defeating CSK twice already this season. But CSK know how to win these big games. There is very little to separate these two sides. Here is DC vs CSK Match Predictions.

DC vs CSK Match Predictions: Form Preview

Delhi’s daredevilry in IPL:

Delhi Capitals are the table-toppers at the end of the league phase in IPL 2021. They became the only team in the history of the IPL to complete a double-over both Chennai and Mumbai in the league stage. DC though went on to lose a close game against RCB in their last league match. Their only possible weak link is their death overs batting. They are a gun side if the match is played around a score of 130-160. But their batting will surely be tested if the match ends up being a high-scoring one. 

Delhi will be looking to attack their opponents early with their intimidating pacers. If they are able to set the early tempo with the ball then expect Delhi to book a place in the finals.

Are CSK battle ready?

CSK became the first team to qualify for the playoffs 11 times in 12 seasons. They staged a stunning recovery from last year when they finished 7th in the points table. CSK ended the league stage albeit losing their last 3 games on the bounce after winning 4 in a row after landing in the UAE. CSK’s middle order barring Ambati Rayudu have failed in the 2nd leg. If their openers don’t provide them with a great start then CSK end up with below par scores. Their bowling too was taken to cleaners in 2 of their last 3 games. CSK will bank upon their big match experience when they take on an exuberant Delhi side in the first qualifier. If CSK’s big guns get going, a record 9th final is not away from them.

DC vs CSK: Favourites?

DC finished first in the league stage for the first time post-2012. They will be keen to take full advantage of the first qualifier to book a spot for a second consecutive final. But they will be up against a seasoned Chennai side who know how to seize the crunch moments in these big games. DC’s energy makes them start slight favourites in this contest.

Which players will be match-winners in this game?

Prithvi Shaw had a stellar showing in India but is yet to come to the party in UAE. He will fancy his chances against CSK.

Faf du Plessis has good numbers against DC. He will look to consolidate that in this game.

X-factor player:

DC will be riding high on Rishabh Pant’s form and confidence. He is unstoppable currently. 

Moeen Ali’s inclusion brings dynamism into CSK’s batting lineup. His strike rate of 134.7 is invaluable.  

What do stats say about DC vs CSK?

DC and CSK have played 25 IPL games against each other.

DC has won 10 games. CSK has won 15 matches. 

DC’s highest score against RCB is 198. CSK’s highest score against DC is 222. 

DC’s highest score against RCB is 83. CSK’s lowest score against DC is 110. 

Pitch:

The Dubai pitch does offer a bit for everyone. The batsmen can trust the true bounce. There will be swing early on. But if the openers are able to ride the early challenge then they might be in for a big knock.

Weather Report:

A high of 37 degrees and a low of 27 degrees is expected. There are no chances of rain. Dew might not play a big factor in Dubai. 

Ground stats:

A total of 67 matches has been played at this venue. Teams batting first have won 35 games while chasing teams have won 31. The average scoring batting first at this venue is 144. On the other hand, the average 2nd innings score is a paltry 122. Anything above 160 will be a par score batting first.

StumpsandBails verdict:

It is a battle between CSK’s experience and DC’s youthfulness. DC hold an edge owing to their exuberance.