CSK have been one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, with five titles to their name, most recently prevailing in the 2023 campaign. Their success has largely been attributed to MS Dhoni’s leadership, who is able to consistently get the most out of his squad by catering to their strengths. Last season, CSK narrowly missed out on qualification on net run rate. Over the break, they have strengthened their bowling attack by acquiring Noor Ahmed - he will join Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in a stacked spin department to utilise the slower conditions of Chepauk. In terms of batting, Ruturaj Gaikwad (who scored the second-most runs in the competition last season) is expected to partner Rachin Ravindra at the top of the order. The Kiwi really impressed in his debut IPL season, and has been in exceptional form recently. With a well rounded squad going into IPL 2025, CSK will look to tap into their strong home advantage en route to a sixth IPL title. If their key players can maintain fitness, particularly MS Dhoni, CSK will be a strong contender.

A balanced squad that performed collectively rather than relying on individual brilliance saw KKR secure their third IPL title last season. The final against SRH was a perfect example - having nullified the potent opening partnership of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, KKR were able to cruise to a comprehensive eight wicket victory, with nine overs to spare. Despite losing captain Shreyas Iyer in the auction, KKR’s batting unit remains strong, with key players such as Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Venkatesh Iyer, and Andre Russell capable of changing the game in a matter of overs. Batting-wise, they look well rounded, with a good blend of experience and youth. On the bowling front, KKR have a formidable spin attack with the duo of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravathy, which is crucial for Indian conditions. With Narine also expected to fulfil the role as a top order pinch-hitter, KKR have the ability to bat deep. Middle order big-hitters have been able to exploit the high-scoring nature of Eden Gardens, which is a trend that looks set to persist this season.

RCB have been one of the most followed franchises in IPL history, but despite their passionate fanbase and star-studded lineups over the years, they are yet to win the competition. Following the departure of Faf du Plessis, Rajat Patidar has been chosen as the skipper this year, and will be hoping to lead his side to success. One of RCB’s biggest strengths has always been their batting lineup. Virat Kohli, who won the Orange Cap (highest run-scorer) with 741 runs last year, remains the backbone of the team, providing stability at the top of the order. RCB made the acquisition of English opener Phil Salt, who will complement Kohli with his aggressive approach in the powerplay. RCB have notoriously struggled with their bowling attack in previous seasons, particularly in the death overs, which hasn’t been helped by the smaller dimensions of their home ground, the Chinnaswamy. However, their 2025 squad appears more balanced, with the highly-experienced duo of Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar leading the pace attack. With the absence of a frontline spinner, Krunal Pandya will be an important player for RCB this season.