Pitch Analysis
The pitch at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai typically leans toward aiding spin, creating a challenging surface for batters as the match progresses.
Early on, the ball grips and turns, making stroke play difficult, especially against slower bowlers.
Seamers get minimal movement, and pace off the ball tends to be more effective.
This ground traditionally favors teams that bat first, with the pitch slowing down under lights.
The outfield may not be the quickest, adding to the difficulty in chasing.
The average first-innings score here is 164, and defending that total is often a viable approach.