The IPL 2025 season is shaping up to be an absolute spectacle, and as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face Delhi Capitals (DC), it’s not just the batters who are set to light up the stage—it's the bowlers who are poised to steal the show. This match will feature two high-octane bowling matchups that could be the difference-makers: Noor Ahmad vs Kuldeep Yadav and Mitchell Starc vs Khaleel Ahmed. Let's break down the numbers and rivalries that make this encounter a mouth-watering clash.

Noor Ahmad vs Kuldeep Yadav: Spin Kings Collide

Noor Ahmad has been one of the most talked-about bowlers this IPL. With his exceptional start to the season, Noor has already made a mark, sitting at the top of the Purple Cap race with 9 wickets in just 3 games. His economy rate of 6.36 highlights his skill in controlling the game and drying up the runs. Known for his flight and variations, Noor has been a massive weapon for his side, and as the pressure mounts, his role in this game against DC will be crucial.

On the other side, Kuldeep Yadav has been in superb form too. With 5 wickets in DC's first two games, Kuldeep is operating at a more-than-impressive economy of 5.25, one of the best in the league. Kuldeep’s control over the middle overs and ability to create breakthroughs has been a trademark of his career. As the two wrist-spinners go head-to-head, it’s going to be a clash of styles—Noor with his mystery and Kuldeep with his precision. This battle of the spinners will be one of the key highlights of the match.

Mitchell Starc vs Khaleel Ahmed: Fast and Furious

If you think the spin contest isn’t enough to get your pulse racing, then don’t forget about the left-arm fast bowling battle between Mitchell Starc and Khaleel Ahmed. Starc might have bagged 8 wickets in 2 games, but here's the catch—he’s been conceding over 10 runs per over. Not the best, right? Khaleel, on the other hand, has been steady for CSK with 6 wickets in 3 matches, all while keeping his economy just under 8. These two could very well set the tone for their teams’ fortunes in the powerplay itself. The contrasting styles of Starc's sheer pace and Khaleel's skillful seam bowling will add another layer of intrigue to this contest.

The Bigger Picture

Now, both teams have their fair share of batting woes. CSK’s lineup is struggling with consistency, with none of their batters cracking the top 10 in run-scorers this season. Gaikwad and Rachin have had their moments, but where’s the firepower from the rest? Meanwhile, DC’s batters haven’t exactly set the stage on fire either, but they have always found match-winners in important moments. In their win against SRH, it was, however, a collective bowling effort that choked their opposition.
At the end of the day, it might be the bowlers who decide this one. The batters will be under pressure, and if CSK doesn’t fire here, their season could go completely off track.

Get ready for a gripping battle—this one’s gonna be all about who dominates the ball!

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CSK vs DC: Noor vs Kuldeep, Starc vs Khaleel - Duels to watch out for!