CSK vs RR Highlights, IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s 15-ball fifty guides RR to an eight-wicket win over CSK
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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Mar 31, 2026, 09:45:06 IST
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CSK vs RR Highlights, IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s 15-ball fifty guides RR to an eight-wicket win over CSK

CSK vs RR Highlights, IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals began their IPL 2026 campaign with a commanding eight-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings, thanks to an extraordinary performance from teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Put into bat on a rain-affected pitch, CSK struggled to build momentum and were restricted to a modest 127. Royals’ bowlers shared the spoils efficiently, with Nandre Burger and Jofra Archer striking early and setting the tone. Ravindra Jadeja, back with Royals after the offseason trade, made an immediate impact, picking up two crucial wickets. CSK’s batting, meanwhile, faltered under pressure. Sanju Samson, making his CSK debut, was dismissed cheaply, while skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad failed to settle. Jamie Overton’s 43 off 36 balls provided some resistance, but the innings lacked momentum.

The chase was dominated by Sooryavanshi, who displayed exceptional power-hitting and composure. The 15-year-old reached a 15-ball fifty, including sixes off Matt Henry and spinner Noor Ahmad, becoming the third fastest half-century in IPL history. His opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal (38 not out), played supportively, letting Sooryavanshi dictate the innings. A standout 18-run over, during which Sooryavanshi was dropped by Kartik Sharma, further highlighted his dominance and sealed the contest early. Royals finished the chase in 12.1 overs, with Parag (14*) helping close out the innings comfortably.

This emphatic victory underlines Rajasthan Royals’ strong start and Sooryavanshi’s meteoric rise, while CSK faces immediate concerns with their batting lineup. The traded stars from last season saw contrasting fortunes—Jadeja impressed in his return, while Samson struggled to make an impact. Royals’ collective effort with the ball and Sooryavanshi’s explosive innings ensured a memorable opener, setting the tone for a thrilling IPL season ahead.
09:45 (IST) Mar 31
Vaibhav Suryavanshi starred on his Rajasthan Royals debut in IPL 2026, smashing 52 off 17 balls to power an eight-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings. The 15-year-old skipped birthday celebrations, opting for rest to stay fresh for the big clash.
09:43 (IST) Mar 31
Vaibhav Suryavanshi continued his meteoric rise with a stunning display as Rajasthan Royals cruised to an eight-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings in their IPL 2026 opener. After RR bowlers restricted CSK to 127, the 15-year-old took charge, smashing a breathtaking 52 off just 17 balls, including five sixes and four boundaries.

Suryavanshi brought up his fifty in only 15 deliveries — the third-fastest in IPL history — effectively sealing the chase early. His fearless, all-out attacking approach left the opposition with no answers, as Rajasthan chased down the target with ease to begin their campaign in dominant fashion.
23:00 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Did you know?
47 balls remaining is the biggest win for RR and the second-heaviest defeat for CSK after 59 balls against KKR at Chepauk last year in terms of balls left in IPL.
22:57 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Rajasthan Royals enter in record books
Least overs taken to complete a 120-plus chase in IPL
9.4 - SRH vs LSG, Hyderabad, 2024 (Tar: 166)
11.1 - KXIP vs KKR, Kolkata, 2018 (Tar: 125)
12.0 - Deccan vs MI, DY Patil, 2008 (Tar: 155)
12.1 - RR vs CSK, Guwahati, 2026 (Tar: 128)*
22:55 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad speaks after loss
Ruturaj Gaikwad reflects on CSK’s tough start in their IPL opener against Rajasthan Royals. The skipper admitted the conditions and a tricky wicket made batting challenging. “Even the spinners were getting some assistance. You just put it behind, move on. We have another game in three days,” said Gaikwad. He added that with many youngsters in the side, it’s hard to judge a par score and that the focus should remain on backing your game. CSK will look to improve their batting in the next outing.
22:47 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: RR demolishes CSK with 8-wicket win
Rajasthan Royals made a resounding statement to start their season. New captain Riyan Parag won the toss and his bowlers delivered a collective masterclass, each chipping in with a wicket to restrict Chennai Super Kings to 127. The total always looked below par, but what followed made it seem even smaller.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi turned the chase into a solo fireworks display. Though dropped on the very first ball he faced, he made CSK pay immediately, dismantling the bowling attack and racing to a stunning 15-ball fifty. The Royals powered through the first six overs to post 74, effectively putting the game out of reach.

Sooryavanshi eventually fell after reaching his milestone, but the damage was done. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag then eased the chase home, finishing the game with nearly eight overs to spare and a statement win for Rajasthan Royals.
22:40 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Rajasthan Royals chase down the target
Yashasvi Jaiswal calmly nudged Matthew Short into the mid-wicket for 1 run, and Rajasthan Royals win by 8 wickets. The victory was sealed with style after an explosive opening from Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Both teams shared handshakes and a few friendly words on the pitch, with Jaiswal showing composure to finish the match.

Final Score: RR 128/2 in 12.1 overs
22:38 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Yashasvi Jaiswal brings RR to the brink
Yashasvi Jaiswal smashed a towering six, taking RR right to the edge of victory, leaving just 1 run needed.

He timed it beautifully off Matt Henry, while Riyan Parag rotated strike well and kept the chase calm. A wide review added a small moment of drama, but RR remain firmly in control.

Score: RR 127/2 after 12 overs – 1 run to win.
22:32 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Riyan Parag finishes the over in style, RR almost there
Riyan Parag adds the finishing touch with a stunning reverse-sweep six off Noor Ahmad.

Yashasvi Jaiswal continued to rotate strike, while Parag played the aggressor, ensuring RR stayed well ahead of the chase.

Just a matter of time now as RR close in on a comfortable win.

RR 115/2 after 11 overs
22:23 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Stat Attack
Jos Buttler (thrice), Yashasvi Jaiswal (twice), Vaibhav Suryavanshi (twice), Michael Lumb. Ben Stokes, and Nitish Rana (once each) are the players to have got to 50 runs within the first six overs of an innings for RR in the IPL.
22:18 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Dhruv Jurel departs after quickfire runs
Anshul Kamboj picks up another wicket, cleaning up Dhruv Jurel just after he found a couple of boundaries.

Jurel tried to get innovative with a scoop but ended up dragging it onto the stumps. Despite the wicket, RR had already gained momentum with his quick runs.

A small breakthrough for CSK, but RR remain in complete control.

RR 99/2 (8.3 overs)
22:16 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Stat Alert
Quickets fifty for RR in IPL (by balls)
13 - Yashasvi Jaiswal vs KKR, Kolkata, 2023
15 - Vaibhav Suryavanshi vs CSK, Guwahati, 2026*
17 - Vaibhav Suryavanshi vs GT, Jaipur, 2025
18 - Jos Buttler vs DD, Delhi, 2018
22:15 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Dhruv Jurel joins the party, RR close in on target
Dhruv Jurel takes charge with a flurry of boundaries, punishing Jamie Overton in a big over.

Jurel struck two crisp fours, while Yashasvi Jaiswal added another boundary to keep things moving. RR shifted gears again after losing a wicket, keeping the pressure firmly on CSK.

The chase is now firmly in RR’s control.

RR 91/1 after 8 overs
22:10 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Kamboj ends Vaibhav Sooryavanshi blitz
Anshul Kamboj finally provides the breakthrough, dismissing Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after a stunning knock.

Sooryavanshi tried to continue the attack but holed out to deep cover, ending a brilliant 52 off just 17 balls. Yashasvi Jaiswal carried on steadily, while Dhruv Jurel walked in.

A quiet over finally for CSK, but RR remain well ahead.

RR 77/1 after 7 overs
22:06 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi blazes to 15-ball fifty, RR dominate powerplay
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is putting on a show, smashing a stunning 15-ball fifty and completely taking the game away from CSK.

He tore into Noor Ahmad, launching back-to-back sixes with fearless hitting. A boundary earlier in the over only added to the carnage. Yashasvi Jaiswal continued to rotate strike, letting Sooryavanshi dominate.

RR finish the powerplay in complete control with a blazing start.

RR 74/0 after 6 overs
22:01 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi goes berserk, RR race past 50
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi takes complete control, smashing Anshul Kamboj all around the park in a massive over.

Two fours and a towering six highlighted his dominance, as he raced to 38 off just 13 balls. Yashasvi Jaiswal played a supporting role with a single, watching the carnage unfold.

RR bring up their fifty inside five overs and are cruising in the chase.

RR 55/0 after 5 overs
21:56 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Khaleel Ahmed bowls a tight over
Khaleel Ahmed bowled another controlled over, keeping the batters in check for most of it.

Yashasvi Jaiswal broke the shackles with a boundary straight down the ground, showing intent, but otherwise found it tough to score freely. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi remained quiet in this over.

RR continue to cruise despite a slightly quieter phase.

RR 40/0 after 4 overs
21:51 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues assault with another six
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stays in full flow, smashing another six off Matt Henry to keep RR firmly on top.

He picked the slower ball early and dispatched it with ease, while Yashasvi Jaiswal played a supporting role, rotating strike.

RR’s aggressive intent continues as they push the chase forward comfortably.

RR 34/0 after 3 overs
21:47 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ends with a boundary
Khaleel Ahmed pulled things back with a disciplined over, not giving much away despite RR’s aggressive start.

Yashasvi Jaiswal played it cautiously, taking his time against some probing deliveries. But Vaibhav Sooryavanshi kept the momentum going, slicing a boundary to keep RR ahead.

RR remain in control of the chase with a steady flow of runs.

RR 24/0 after 2 overs
21:41 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: RR explode out of the blocks with 18-run over
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi came out blazing, taking on Matt Henry right from the start.

Sooryavanshi set the tone with a four and a massive six, even getting a life off a dropped catch that went for four. Jaiswal joined in as well, finishing the over with a boundary.

A perfect start for RR as they go hard in the chase.

RR 18/0 after 1 over
21:30 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: ‘Pink looks good on me’- Ravindra Jadeja shines on RR return
Ravindra Jadeja enjoyed a memorable outing on his return to Rajasthan Royals, playing a key role with the ball and reflecting on a special night in new colours.

“I think pink looks good on me,” Jadeja said with a smile, after making an immediate impact against his former team. The all-rounder revealed that familiarity helped him dismiss Shivam Dube, a batter he has bowled to extensively in the nets. “I knew he would look to play big shots, so I tried to bowl outside off,” he explained.

Jadeja admitted the conditions worked in his favour. “The wicket was a bit sticky and the ball was turning. I really enjoyed bowling. My job was just to hit the right areas and let the pitch do the rest,” he said after his tidy spell.

Despite CSK setting a modest target, Jadeja stressed the importance of focus in the chase. “You can’t take anything for granted in cricket. No matter the target, you have to work hard, play your shots and give your 100%,” he added.

It was a composed and confident performance from Jadeja, underlining his value as RR’s key all-rounder this season.
21:23 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Run-Out chaos ends CSK innings
Jamie Overton fought hard till the end, even smashing a six, but his innings ended in chaos with a run-out.

A mix-up with Anshul Kamboj saw Overton hesitate, then go for a risky second, only to be caught short. It summed up CSK’s innings — flashes of fight but plenty of confusion.

RR wrap it up after dominating with the ball throughout.

CSK 127 all out (19.4 overs)
21:18 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Late runs for CSK
Jamie Overton and Anshul Kamboj added some valuable late runs, showing resistance at the end.

A no-ball and a boundary from Kamboj helped CSK pick up momentum, while Overton continued to rotate strike and anchor the innings. RR were slightly sloppy here, allowing runs to leak after dominating for most of the innings.

CSK push past 100, trying to give their bowlers something to work with.

CSK 118/9 after 19 overs
21:08 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Jofra Archer tests Jamie Overton
Jofra Archer kept testing Jamie Overton with short balls, not allowing him to settle.

Overton struggled to connect at times but managed to find a boundary with a sliced shot, continuing his lone fight. The rest of the over was mostly dot balls as RR maintained control.

CSK inch closer to 100 but still one wicket away from being bowled out.

CSK 99/9 after 17 overs
21:01 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Ravi Bishnoi strikes
Ravi Bishnoi finishes it almost himself, taking a sharp return catch to dismiss Matt Henry.

Henry tried to go back at the bowler but couldn’t get enough on it, handing a simple chance back. CSK now on the brink of being bowled out.

RR just one wicket away from wrapping things up.

CSK 87/9 (15.3 overs)
20:53 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Nandre Burger keep things under control
Nandre Burger continued to keep things under control, giving very little away in a disciplined over.

Jamie Overton tried to hang in but had a tough time, even taking a painful blow from a rising delivery. He managed to stay on and pick up a single, but scoring remained difficult.

CSK struggling to build any momentum as RR tighten their grip.

CSK 86/8 after 14 overs
20:46 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Jofra Archer strikes again, CSK eight down
Jofra Archer returns to deliver another blow, removing Noor Ahmad with a well-set trap.

After mixing lengths, Archer tempted Noor into a drive outside off, only for him to edge it behind. CSK’s lower order continues to struggle, with barely any scoring in the over.

RR firmly in control as CSK inch closer to being bowled out.

CSK 82/8 after 13 overs
20:38 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: STAT Alert!
This is the first time since 2020 that Sanju Samson has been dismissed without a 50-plus score in his first match of an IPL season.
74 (32) vs CSK, 2020
119 (63) vs PBKS, 2021
55 (27) vs SRH, 2022
55 (32) vs SRH, 2023
82* (52) vs LSG, 2024
66 (37) vs SRH, 2025
6 (7) vs RR, 2026*
20:34 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Brijesh Sharma gets the wicket of Kartik Sharma
Brijesh Sharma strikes again, trapping Kartik Sharma plumb in front with a full, straight delivery.

Kartik tried to review it, but ball-tracking confirmed it was crashing into the stumps. Just when he was looking set, CSK lose another key wicket.

RR keep tightening their grip with wickets at regular intervals.

CSK 73/7 (10.3 overs)​
20:30 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Six for Jamie Overton
Ravindra Jadeja continued to control the game, keeping things tight with his accurate lines and lengths.

But Jamie Overton provided a change, stepping out and launching a clean six over long-off to ease some pressure. Kartik Sharma played it steady at the other end, rotating strike.

A slightly better over for CSK, but RR still ahead.

CSK 70/6 after 10 overs
20:23 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Stat Alert!
Most games missed between two appearances for a team in T20s
238 - Bhuvneshwar Kumar for RCB (2009-2025)
225 - Karn Sharma for RCB (2009-2023)
214 - Ravindra Jadeja for RR (2009-2026)**
206 - Mandeep Singh for KKR (2010-2023)
20:21 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Jadeja runs through CSK
Ravindra Jadeja turns the game on its head with a brilliant over, picking up two wickets and putting CSK in deep trouble.

He first removed Sarfaraz Khan with a smart variation, and then sent back Shivam Dube, who tried to counterattack but holed out. Dube did manage a big six, but it wasn’t enough to shift momentum.

RR firmly in control now, with CSK losing wickets in a heap.

CSK 57/6 after 8 overs
20:16 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Ravindra Jadeja strikes
Ravindra Jadeja makes an instant impact, trapping Sarfaraz Khan lbw with a clever change of pace.

Sarfaraz went for a premeditated sweep but missed completely, and the review only confirmed his dismissal. Just when CSK were stabilising, RR strike again.

Big wicket, and the slide continues for CSK.

CSK 51/5 (7.2 overs)
20:14 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Kartik Sharma injects momentum with a six
Ravi Bishnoi kept things tight early in the over, with both batters rotating strike and trying to rebuild.

But Kartik Sharma changed the tempo at the end, smashing a six off a short ball to release some pressure. Sarfaraz Khan continued to play sensibly, picking up singles and keeping the scoreboard ticking.

A much-needed over for CSK after early damage.

CSK 51/4 after 7 overs
20:07 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Matthew Short falls softly, CSK slip further
Sandeep Sharma strikes immediately as Matthew Short chips a simple catch to midwicket. A soft dismissal just when CSK were trying to rebuild.

RR in control with another breakthrough.

CSK 37/4 (5.3 overs)
20:05 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Sarfaraz Khan keeps CSK afloat
Brijesh Sharma kept things tight, not allowing much room for scoring as CSK looked to rebuild. Matthew Short struggled to find timing, managing just a single.

At the other end, Sarfaraz Khan continued to be positive, finishing the over with a boundary to keep the scoreboard moving.

After early setbacks, CSK are trying to steady things, with Sarfaraz leading the fightback.

CSK 36/3 after 5 overs
19:58 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Nandre Burger wreaks havoc on CSK
Nandre Burger continued the damage, removing Ayush Mhatre for a duck as CSK slipped further into trouble.

But Sarfaraz Khan brought some much-needed intent. He counterattacked brilliantly, pulling a four and then launching a stunning six to shift momentum slightly.

Despite the wickets, CSK finally showed some fight in this over, thanks to Sarfaraz’s aggressive approach.

CSK 30/3 after 4 overs
19:52 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Ayush Mhatre falls for a golden duck
Another jolt to CSK after Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad; Ayush Mhatre falls for a golden duck, giving Nandre Burger his second wicket.
19:48 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Jofra Archer castles Ruturaj Gaikwad
Jofra Archer continues to dominate as he cleans up Ruturaj Gaikwad, leaving CSK in early trouble.

Gaikwad struggled to get going, managing just one crisp boundary before being bowled. The over had pressure written all over it, with multiple dot balls building tension.

RR’s pace attack is right on top, striking twice inside three overs and putting CSK on the back foot early.

CSK 19/2 after 3 overs
19:43 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Burger strikes early, Samson cleaned up
Nandre Burger made an immediate impact, knocking over Sanju Samson with a superb inswinger that crashed into off stump.

Before that, conditions already looked tricky. The ball was moving around, troubling Ruturaj Gaikwad, who survived a few nervy moments. A leg-bye boundary helped ease some pressure, but RR kept things tight.

Big early breakthrough for Rajasthan as CSK lose their in-form opener.

CSK 14/1 after 2 overs
19:35 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Sanju Samson survives
Jofra Archer started with pace and movement, keeping both batters in check. Sanju Samson looked a bit uncertain early on, beaten outside off once and struck on the pads.

The only real release came through a streaky boundary, as Samson edged one past the keeper.

A cautious opening over with Archer asking the questions.

CSK 7/0 after 1 over
19:27 (IST) Mar 30
Chennai Super Kings step into unfamiliar territory in IPL 2026. For the first time in the tournament’s history, they are playing a match without both MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina — two names that have defined the franchise for over a decade.

For years, Dhoni and Raina were the backbone of CSK’s identity. Dhoni, the captain who built a legacy of calm leadership and success, and Raina, often called ‘Mr IPL’, were ever-present figures through the team’s highs and lows. Their absence marks not just a team change, but the symbolic end of an era.
19:22 (IST) Mar 30
Dhoni has long been central to CSK as captain, finisher and wicketkeeper, but this match at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium will go ahead without him. His absence brings focus on the last time he missed a game and how often he has been unavailable since the IPL began in 2008.
19:18 (IST) Mar 30
Chennai Super Kings face an early IPL 2026 challenge as MS Dhoni and Dewald Brevis are sidelined for their opening match against Rajasthan Royals. Brevis is out with a side strain, while Dhoni will miss the first two weeks due to a calf strain, impacting CSK's middle order and leadership.
19:10 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Riyan Parag Explains Bowling Call After RR Win Toss
Riyan Parag confirmed that conditions played a major role in his decision as Rajasthan Royals opted to bowl first against Chennai Super Kings.

“There’s been a lot of rain, so there should be some moisture in the surface,” Parag said at the toss, explaining the thinking behind chasing. With overcast conditions around Guwahati, RR will look to make the most of any early movement on offer.

Parag also spoke about stepping into the captaincy role, admitting it feels “nice” and highlighting the strong support he has received from within the setup. “Hopefully a good campaign for us. The goal is to win the championship,” he added.

The Royals skipper emphasised the team’s approach in building the squad, pointing out that they have focused on bringing in “smart cricketers” to improve decision-making in key moments.

With conditions expected to assist bowlers early, RR will aim for early breakthroughs, while CSK’s top order will need to navigate a potentially tricky start.
19:08 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: RR Win Toss, Opt to Bowl First vs CSK
Rajasthan Royals have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2026 opener in Guwahati.

Captain Riyan Parag opted to chase, keeping the weather in mind with rain still a threat around the venue. The conditions, with some moisture around, could assist the RR pace attack early on.
18:50 (IST) Mar 30
RR vs CSK Live Score: Rain update!
There is a brief sense of relief in Guwahati as the rain has eased, offering a window of hope ahead of the IPL 2026 opener between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings. However, the situation remains far from settled.

While the showers have paused for now, the square is still under covers, and the ground staff are hard at work with the super-sopper, trying to get the surface match-ready. The conditions suggest that preparations are underway, but the outfield and pitch will need time before being deemed fit for play.

The bigger concern remains the forecast. With more rain predicted later in the evening, there is still uncertainty around whether the match will proceed uninterrupted.
18:44 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: CSK Begin IPL 2026 Amid Transition, Injuries and Fresh Hope
Chennai Super Kings find themselves at a crossroads as they begin their IPL 2026 campaign. The five-time champions have missed the playoffs in each of the last two seasons, prompting a rethink in approach and squad composition.

Head coach Stephen Fleming admitted as much after the auction, suggesting the team may have been slow to adapt to the evolving demands of the format. The response was bold. CSK invested heavily in youth, signing uncapped players Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma for a combined INR 14.2 crore, signalling a shift towards building for the future.

However, their campaign begins with setbacks. MS Dhoni is expected to miss the first two weeks due to a calf injury, while Dewald Brevis has been ruled out of the opener with a side strain. Spencer Johnson, brought in as a replacement for Nathan Ellis, is also unavailable for now as he recovers from a back issue.

In their absence, the spotlight shifts to Sanju Samson, who is set to open alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. The team will also look to Shivam Dube for impact, especially after his confidence-boosting performances in the recent T20 World Cup.

With the ball, Noor Ahmad and Khaleel Ahmed remain key pillars after consistent performances last season. Around them, a group of young and relatively untested players will look to seize their opportunity.

For CSK, IPL 2026 is not just about results. It is about evolution.
18:29 (IST) Mar 30
Rain clouds hang over the IPL 2026 opener in Guwahati, with forecasts raising concerns of possible interruptions in the clash between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings.

Both sides enter the new season looking to bounce back from disappointing 2025 campaigns, and they do so with fresh leadership and reshaped squads. Sanju Samson has moved to CSK, while Ravindra Jadeja returns to RR. Riyan Parag takes over as Royals captain, with Ruturaj Gaikwad leading CSK.

While both teams aim for a reset, the biggest uncertainty ahead of the opener might just be the weather.
18:23 (IST) Mar 30
CSK vs RR Live Score: Young Guns to Watch – Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Prashant Veer
Amid the big names, IPL 2026 also brings fresh faces into focus. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for RR and Prashant Veer for CSK are two players to watch.

Sooryavanshi’s power-hitting stood out last season, with an impressive strike rate and ability to clear boundaries consistently. Opening alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, he adds aggression at the top.

Veer, on the other hand, is a promising all-round option. Known for his ability to bowl in the powerplay and hit big shots down the order, he offers flexibility to CSK.

Both players represent the next generation and have a chance to make an early impact.

In a game filled with established stars, these young talents could provide the surprise factor.
14 More Updates
CSK vs RR Highlights, IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2026 with a fresh look after finishing at the bottom in 2025. Rajasthan Royals have appointed Riyan Parag as captain, replacing Sanju Samson, who has moved to CSK. Ravindra Jadeja has swapped teams, leaving CSK to bring balance to RR’s squad, which struggled with two overseas spinners last season. RR now boasts a formidable pace attack with Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, and Adam Milne, alongside the spin of Ravi Bishnoi and Jadeja’s control in the middle overs. The team will also need to choose between Donovan Ferreira and Dasun Shanaka in the all-rounder role, with Sam Curran ruled out for the season.

CSK, meanwhile, have reinstated Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain, as MS Dhoni is expected to miss the first two weeks due to a calf injury. South Africa batter Dewald Brevis will also miss the opening game. CSK’s bowling has been hit by injuries, with Nathan Ellis out and Spencer Johnson recovering from his own fitness concerns. Matt Henry and Noor Ahmad remain key bowlers, while the team balances powerplay specialists like Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj against middle-over options such as Akeal Hosein.

The spotlight falls on Jadeja and Prashant Veer. Jadeja, returning to RR, offers both middle-over control and finishing power with the bat. Veer, a promising domestic talent for CSK, could step up in the powerplay and add finishing firepower down the order. Both teams will also navigate pitch conditions in Guwahati, where rain and a fresh pitch could influence strategies.

RR and CSK will kick off their campaigns with challenging early fixtures, giving both teams an early chance to establish momentum and test their revamped line-ups before heading into the core phase of IPL 2026.