Chennai Super Kings begin their IPL 2026 campaign tonight with a youthful squad taking on Rajasthan Royals in Match 3 at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. The clash is being billed as a battle of legacy versus recent dominance, with CSK entering a new era without their iconic captain MS Dhoni, who is sidelined by injury, and Ravindra Jadeja, who has now joined RR. Leading the side is Ruturaj Gaikwad, tasked with guiding a fresh‑faced team against one of their toughest rivals.
Sanju Samson, stepping in as wicketkeeper and opening alongside the captain, praised the fearlessness of CSK’s younger recruits, including Shivam Dube and Ayush Mhatre, who are expected to play pivotal roles in the lineup. Despite setbacks with injuries to Dewald Brevis, Spencer Johnson, and Nathan Ellis, the squad radiates calm confidence, determined to prove themselves against RR’s formidable record.
The Royals, who have won seven of the last ten meetings between the two sides, enter the contest with momentum and depth, making this opener a stern test for CSK’s new‑look roster. Fans are eager to see how Gaikwad’s leadership and the team’s youthful energy will fare against RR’s established strength.
