Vaibhav Suryavanshi has reached a point where he has nothing to lose, which means he can play his next IPL 2025 match with complete freedom and fearlessness. Rajasthan Royals, Vaibhav’s team, will face off against Chennai Super Kings led by the legendary MS Dhoni. This match is crucial for Vaibhav, who must secure a win for his team and defeat Dhoni’s side at all costs. However, the biggest challenge standing in his way is someone close to him—his friend, who has now become Dhoni’s key protector. This encounter between RR and CSK might also turn into a fierce battle between two friends.
A Long-standing Rivalry Between RR and CSK
The contest between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals has always been intense and closely fought in the IPL. This upcoming match will mark the 32nd meeting between these two sides. Out of the previous 31 matches, CSK leads with 16 wins to RR’s 15. Rajasthan Royals are nearly neck and neck with CSK, especially with power hitters like Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who can quickly turn the game around. Yet, CSK also boasts a strong lineup with Dhoni and his reliable shield—Vaibhav’s own friend who has shared many memorable innings with him.
Friends Turned Opponents
The friend in question is Ayush Mhatre. Vaibhav and Ayush have been close since their Under-19 cricket days. Vaibhav hails from Bihar, while Ayush is from Mumbai, but when they played together for India, their chemistry and explosive performances made them a formidable pair. Both players have made their mark in IPL 2025 as well. However, in this crucial match, they will be on opposite sides, battling against each other.
Vaibhav vs. Ayush: IPL 2025 Showdown So Far
Looking at their IPL 2025 stats, Vaibhav and Ayush have played a nearly equal number of balls—Vaibhav faced 89 balls, while Ayush faced 90. However, Vaibhav holds the edge when it comes to strike rate and impact. He boasts an outstanding strike rate of 219.10, the highest among all batsmen this season, while Ayush’s strike rate is 181.11. Vaibhav is also far more effective in clearing the boundary ropes, having hit 34 boundaries compared to Ayush’s 27.
Why Vaibhav is Determined to Beat Dhoni
Cricket is unpredictable, and while Vaibhav leads in numbers, Ayush’s technical skills pose a significant threat. Vaibhav, having played alongside Ayush, is fully aware of his capabilities. Rajasthan Royals need a win desperately to avoid slipping to the bottom of the points table, so Vaibhav is motivated to overcome Dhoni’s team with both skill and caution.
Ultimately, the outcome of this RR vs CSK match will heavily depend on the performances of Vaibhav and Ayush. These two friends turned rivals will be responsible for giving their teams a strong start and setting the stage for victory.
