If there’s one thing Delhi hasn’t offered lately, it’s consistency—and Delhi Capitals (DC) have mirrored that unpredictability on the field in IPL 2026. The capital has swung between extreme weather conditions, and DC’s performances have followed a similarly erratic pattern. In their recent home stretch, Delhi reached a historic high, posting 264—their highest-ever IPL total—only to suffer heartbreak as it became the highest successful chase in men’s T20 history.

Just one game later, they crashed to 75 all out, marking one of their lowest points. Remarkably, both extremes ended in defeat, extending a worrying run of five losses in six matches. However, the Capitals responded in style on the road. Against a strong Rajasthan Royals side, DC chased down 226 with an over to spare—their highest successful IPL chase—offering a much-needed boost to morale and keeping their campaign alive.

Despite the turnaround, Delhi are still searching for their ideal combination, especially when it comes to overseas players. Tactical decisions, including the debated omission of David Miller, have allowed them to reshuffle their bowling attack. The inclusion of Mitchell Starc has added sharpness with the new ball, while Pathum Nissanka has made the most of his opportunity. With Lungi Ngidi nearing a return, DC may finally be close to settling on a balanced XI.

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Interestingly, Chennai Super Kings find themselves in a similar position. Both teams sit on eight points from nine games, with CSK slightly ahead on net run rate. Like DC, they have struggled with injuries and consistency, making every remaining game crucial.

Historically, CSK have dominated this rivalry, leading the head-to-head 20-12 and maintaining a strong record even in Delhi. Since 2022, they have won four of the six encounters between the two sides.

DC’s home record adds another layer of concern. After a strong 2024 season, they have managed just two wins in nine home games across 2025 and 2026. As they return to familiar conditions, the big question remains—which version of Delhi Capitals will show up? With a high-scoring pitch expected and playoff spots on the line, DC cannot afford another slip.

Delhi Capitals (DC)

Lungi Ngidi is back in contention for the Delhi Capitals after completing the mandatory seven-day concussion protocol, offering a timely boost to their bowling attack. However, youngster Sahil Parakh remains sidelined with a back injury, which had earlier forced DC into reshuffling their combination. That change saw Pathum Nissanka return to the XI, while David Miller was left out. For now, DC appear set to stick with the same lineup, with bowling coach Munaf Patel indicating no immediate changes at the top.

On the other side, Chennai Super Kings continue to grapple with inconsistent starts. Their opening partnership has yielded just 205 runs at an average of 22.77—among the lowest this season. This weakness could be tested further by DC captain Axar Patel, who has enjoyed success against key batters like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson in T20 cricket. Axar may once again look to use himself early in the Powerplay to break partnerships.

Probable XII: KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs, Abishek Porel/Vipraj Nigam, Axar Patel (C), Ashutosh Sharma, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan

Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

CSK will also miss the presence of MS Dhoni, who hasn’t travelled as he continues his rehabilitation. Meanwhile, they are yet to name a replacement for the injured Ramakrishna Ghosh.

For DC, KL Rahul has been in outstanding touch, boasting a rapid start this season, including a 152* and a 92 at this venue. With Nissanka also finding form, DC’s batting looks increasingly threatening. CSK, meanwhile, will rely on Anshul Kamboj to strike early and contain the flow of runs.

Probable XII: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Prashant Veer, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh/Akash Madhwal