Chennai Super Kings Set to Face Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026 Opener
CSK's Season Opener Against RR
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are gearing up to kick off their 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) journey against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. This match serves as a home game for the Royals and features two teams that ended up at the bottom of the standings last season. Both franchises are eager to begin the new season on a positive note following their previous disappointing performances.
However, CSK faces a significant setback as MS Dhoni has been ruled out of the opening match due to an injury. The franchise has announced that the 44-year-old is dealing with a calf injury and will be sidelined for at least the first two weeks of the tournament. Consequently, he is also expected to miss upcoming matches against the Punjab Kings (PBKS), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and Delhi Capitals (DC).
All eyes will be on Sanju Samson, who is set to debut against his former team. The Player of the Tournament from the 2026 T20 World Cup will open the batting alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad, as confirmed by the CSK captain during a recent meeting. This adjustment means that teenager Ayush Mhatre will bat at number three after a commendable performance in his debut IPL season last year. The batting lineup will be bolstered by Shivam Dube and Dewald Brevis, forming a formidable core.
With Dhoni unavailable, uncapped wicket-keepers Urvil Patel and Karthik Sharma may get their opportunity. Urvil, who was signed last year, boasts an impressive record in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), while CSK made a significant investment to acquire Karthik in this year's auction. However, it appears that neither will take on wicket-keeping duties, as Samson is expected to fill that role until Dhoni's return. This situation leaves Sarfaraz Khan waiting for his chance in the batting order.
CSK has also made a notable investment in Prashant Veer, who is anticipated to serve as a direct replacement for Jadeja. The 20-year-old is likely to be included in the playing XI. Jamie Overton will enhance the team's all-round capabilities, while Matt Henry is expected to lead the overseas pace attack alongside Overton, who will also contribute to the batting depth. Khaleel Ahmed is set to join the fast-bowling lineup, with Noor Ahmed taking on the primary spin bowling responsibilities.
CSK Playing XI: (XI + Impact Player): Sanju Samson (WK), Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Ayush Mhatre, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Karthik Sharma, Urvil Patel, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmed, Matt Henry, and Anshul Kamboj.