As the clock strikes 7:30 PM IST on April 2, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru is set to host what promises to be an electrifying clash: Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing off against Gujarat Titans in the 14th match of the IPL 2025.
For those keen on fantasy cricket, we have the best Dream11 predictions, alongside expert tips, likely playing elevens, and insights to keep you ahead of the game.
Let’s dive into a preview of this much-anticipated showdown. Currently sitting at the top, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have impressed by clinching victories in both of their matches so far. Meanwhile, the Gujarat Titans are not far behind, securing a win from their two outings, placing them fourth.
Star player Rajat Patidar shone brightly for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their last encounter, scoring 51 runs leading to a triumphant 50-run victory over Chennai Super Kings. The Gujarat Titans enter this match with confidence too, with Sai Sudharsan’s 63 runs powering a 36-run win against Mumbai Indians.
Historically, both teams have locked horns five times, with Bengaluru winning three and Gujarat two. This upcoming match could be pivotal in altering these statistics and enhancing each team’s standings.
When we look at the head-to-head record, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have a slight edge with three wins against Gujarat Titans’ two.
Now, let’s take a glimpse at the pitch and weather report. With the temperature forecasted to be a comfortable 28°C under clear skies, the conditions might favor the batsmen, particularly those who thrive against pace. Historically, the average first-innings score here is 204, but chasing teams haven’t fared well, with a winning percentage of just 47%.
Turning to the potential line-ups, Royal Challengers Bengaluru might field star players like Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans could rely on talents such as Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan.
For fantasy players, some hot picks come into focus. Sai Sudharsan stands out for Gujarat, having shown his mettle with the bat in recent games. And who can overlook the seasoned Virat Kohli, a consistent performer for Bengaluru?
In terms of top picks, Shubman Gill and Philip Salt are great choices based on their past performances. Budget-conscious players might want to look into Krunal Pandya’s versatile contributions or Sai Kishore’s dual-role effectiveness for Gujarat.
As for captain and vice-captain selections in fantasy teams, consider the likes of Virat Kohli or Sai Sudharsan for leadership roles. Philip Salt and Shubman Gill could also make strategic vice-captain choices.
For those constructing their Dream11 teams, here are two suggestions:
Team 1:
- Keepers: Jos Buttler, Philip Salt (vc)
- Batsmen: Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Sai Sudharsan (c), Rajat Patidar
- All-rounders: Liam Livingstone, Krunal Pandya, Shahrukh Khan
- Bowlers: Josh Hazlewood, Mohammed Siraj
Team 2:
- Keepers: Jos Buttler, Philip Salt
- Batsmen: Shubman Gill (vc), Virat Kohli (c), Sai Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar
- All-rounders: Liam Livingstone, Krunal Pandya
- Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Josh Hazlewood, Mohammed Siraj
If you’re looking to avoid certain players, Washington Sundar and Jacob Bethell might not be the best picks considering they didn’t perform in the last match.
The experts have a few tips: Sai Sudharsan is a solid choice for small league captaincy, while Virat Kohli shines for grand leagues. Consider taking a chance with Rashid Khan or Shivam Dube for punt picks, and remember the balanced combination of 2-4-3-2 in dream team setups.
As we approach the match day, analysts lean toward Royal Challengers Bengaluru as favorites, given their squad strength and current momentum. All in all, it promises to be a thrilling contest here in Bengaluru!