As the 19th edition gets underway, the Super Kings will take on the Rajasthan Royals at the ACA-Barsapara Stadium on Monday. History, therefore, offers an intriguing subplot — but this contest carries layers far beyond numbers.
This contest is shaped as much by transition as by recent form. Both teams come in after underwhelming 2025 seasons. Chennai missed the Playoffs for a second straight year — a first in its history — raising questions about depth and renewal. Rajasthan endured a tougher campaign, finishing ninth after a slump that included seven consecutive defeats.
The Royals have responded with a significant overhaul, revamping personnel as well as its support staff and management structure. Yet, a strong core remains. Yashasvi Jaiswal remains central at the top, while Vaibhav Suryavanshi adds explosiveness. The middle-order, which struggled last season, will rely on Shimron Hetmyer and Dhruv Jurel, now strengthened by Ravindra Jadeja.
With the ball, much will depend on Jofra Archer up front, along with the experienced Sandeep Sharma. The addition of Ravi Bishnoi lends variety to the spin attack.
Chennai, too, has embraced change, injecting youth into its line-up. Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis bring fresh energy, while Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma add finishing power alongside Shivam Dube. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership, combined with Sanju Samson’s versatility, lends balance.
However, it will be without M.S. Dhoni, who has been ruled out for two weeks with a calf strain — an early setback.
The weather could also play a role. Persistent rain and drizzle in Guwahati add uncertainty as both sides look to make an early statement. Chennai will hope history repeats itself, while Rajasthan aims to turn promise into performance.
Published on Mar 29, 2026
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