RR bundle out CSK for 127
The physio runs out to check on Overton. He grimaced in pain as soon as he was hit.
No relief for CSK as they continue to lose wickets
Rajasthan Royals have been on top with the ball in the first 10 overs. CSK have lost 6 wickets in just 8 overs with Shivam Dube also back in the hut.
Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Ayush Mhatre, Matthew Short, Shivam Dube, Kartik Sharma, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Matt Henry, Anshul Kamboj, Khaleel Ahmed
Rajasthan Royals (Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Riyan Parag(c), Dhruv Jurel(w), Shimron Hetmyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Brijesh Sharma
Rajasthan Royals may have parted ways with Sanju Samson, but their batting core remains largely intact. The opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi brings youthful aggression, while skipper Riyan Parag and Dhruv Jurel solidify the Indian core in the middle order.
Despite a lean run in recent IPL seasons, Shimron Hetmyer has rediscovered form in T20Is this year, averaging over 40 with a strike rate close to 186. His role, however, remains a key talking point. In the absence of Sam Curran, Rajasthan are likely to field either Donovan Ferreira or Dasun Shanaka to maintain balance.
Their bowling attack appears more settled this season. The inclusion of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Bishnoi strengthens the spin department, allowing flexibility to deploy overseas pacers like Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Adam Milne, or Kwena Maphaka.
CSK Eye Revival Amid Injury Concerns
For Chennai Super Kings, the last two seasons have been disappointing, with the five-time champions missing out on the playoffs. Head coach Stephen Fleming admitted the team may have been slow to adapt to the evolving demands of T20 cricket.
CSK will not be at full strength, with MS Dhoni sidelined due to a calf strain and Dewald Brevis unavailable with a side injury. Spencer Johnson is also expected to join late as he recovers from a back issue.
All eyes will be on the new opening combination of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson. Shivam Dube, fresh from a strong ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, will be key in the middle order.
The bowling unit looks relatively settled, with Noor Ahmad and Khaleel Ahmed expected to lead the attack. CSK’s squad also features several exciting young players eager to make an impact.
Pitch & Conditions – Guwahati
According to experts Deep Dasgupta and Daren Ganga, the pitch in Guwahati is expected to offer good pace and bounce due to its red-soil nature. However, recent rain and overcast conditions could leave moisture on the surface, assisting seamers early on.
With even grass coverage and consistent bounce, batters who adjust quickly can still score freely. That said, the weather and early-season nerves could make conditions tricky, especially in the powerplay.
What to Expect
With both teams entering IPL 2026 looking to bounce back from underwhelming campaigns, this clash promises a tightly contested battle. Rajasthan appear more settled on paper, while Chennai will rely on new combinations and youthful energy to make a strong start.
