Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Mumbai Indians together boast 13 IPL titles—a staggering figure for a tournament just 18 years old. Yet, IPL 2026 has seen a dramatic shift in fortunes, with all three heavyweights struggling early in the season. After four rounds, they find themselves occupying the bottom spots on the points table, with Kolkata Knight Riders still searching for their first win.
CSK, however, broke their losing streak with a convincing victory over Delhi Capitals and, in doing so, may have uncovered a new blueprint for success at home. Traditionally dominant with spin at Chepauk, Chennai adapted to changing pitch conditions by relying on pace and hard lengths.
This tactical shift paid off, and if similar surfaces persist, CSK could rediscover their stronghold at home. The team would also be encouraged by Sanju Samson’s return to form, with a brilliant century easing early-season concerns. There could be further tactical tweaks, including a possible reshuffle between Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ayush Mhatre to maximise Powerplay efficiency.
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Kolkata Knight Riders, meanwhile, have shown flashes of promise without converting performances into results. A total of 220 against Mumbai Indians proved insufficient, while a standout effort from Mukesh Choudhary denied them victory in another close contest. Their campaign has also included a one-sided loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad and a rain-affected game against Punjab Kings.
Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been a bright spot for KKR, but inconsistent returns from Finn Allen and Cameron Green have hurt their batting stability. Their bowling unit has also been weakened by injuries, with uncertainty surrounding Varun Chakaravarthy’s availability adding to their concerns.
With clear skies expected and a batting-friendly black soil surface on offer, conditions should suit strokeplay. Historically, CSK hold the edge in head-to-head encounters, leading 20-11, although recent meetings since 2022 have been evenly balanced at 3-3.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Chennai Super Kings are likely to continue without MS Dhoni for at least one more game, as the franchise appears set to stick with a winning combination following their recent turnaround. There remains no official clarity on Dhoni’s return, and given the momentum, CSK may prefer not to disrupt the balance just yet.
A key tactical focus for Chennai will be handling Varun Chakaravarthy, should the KKR spinner be declared fit. In that scenario, Shivam Dube could play a crucial role as CSK’s primary counter, with Dewald Brevis also expected to take on spin through the middle overs. On the flip side, CSK’s pace attack will need to be sharp against Cameron Green, who boasts strong numbers against spinners like Noor Ahmad and Akeal Hosein. There is some positive news for Chennai with Matheesha Pathirana regaining fitness. However, it remains unlikely that he will be rushed back immediately, especially against his former franchise.
Probable XII: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Sanju Samson (wk), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Akeal Hosein, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
For Kolkata Knight Riders, Varun Chakaravarthy’s availability remains uncertain despite him being seen training separately. KKR may also consider promoting Sunil Narine to the top of the order, particularly to counter Akeal Hosein in the Powerplay.
Narine’s value isn’t limited to batting alone. With the ball, he holds an impressive record against Sanju Samson, conceding just 66 runs off 82 deliveries—making him a key weapon in both departments for KKR.
Probable XII: Ajinkya Rahane (c), Finn Allen, Cameron Green, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk), Rinku Singh, Rovman Powell, Ramandeep Singh, Anukul Roy, Sunil Narine, Navdeep Saini, Kartik Tyagi, Vaibhav Arora
