- RR vs CSK IPL Match Preview with full form guide and team news
- Key players including Jadeja, Gaikwad and Bishnoi in focus
- Predicted XIs, pitch report and match conditions in Guwahati
The Indian Premier League 2026 continues to gather pace as Rajasthan Royals host Chennai Super Kings in Match 3 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. This IPL match preview focuses on two sides in transition, both eager to move beyond disappointing campaigns and begin a new chapter with renewed purpose.
You can keep up to date with the latest IPL 2026 fixtures via the official IPL schedule page.
Rajasthan Royals form guide ahead of IPL 2026 clash
Rajasthan Royals endured a difficult run in the previous edition, winning just four matches before exiting at the league stage. The franchise has responded with a bold rebuild, handing captaincy to Riyan Parag and signalling a clear shift in direction.
Key personnel changes define this new look side. Sanju Samson has moved on, while Ravindra Jadeja arrives as a marquee addition. Jadeja brings balance that Rajasthan lacked last season, offering control in the middle overs and power hitting at the death.
The Royals have also reshaped their bowling attack following moves made at the IPL Auction, opening the door for a more varied and effective combination. The departures of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana have opened the door for a more varied approach. Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger and Adam Milne bring pace and aggression, while Ravi Bishnoi provides control through the middle overs.
Selection decisions remain. With Sam Curran ruled out, Rajasthan must choose between Donovan Ferreira and Dasun Shanaka. The conditions may also influence whether Burger or Milne gets the nod.
Last season still offered some positives. Yashasvi Jaiswal led the batting charts with 559 runs. With improved balance across departments, Rajasthan look better prepared to mount a stronger challenge.
Rajasthan Royals key players to watch
Vaibhav Suryavanshi will play a central role in Rajasthan’s batting plans, bringing a fearless approach and the ability to dominate bowling attacks with clean striking. His intent at the top could set the tone early.
Ravi Bishnoi remains vital with the ball. He controls the middle overs with precision and continues to create pressure through accuracy and variation.
Chennai Super Kings form guide ahead of IPL 2026 clash
For Chennai Super Kings, last season marked a rare fall, as they finished bottom of the table with just four wins. This IPL match preview reflects a side still searching for balance after a period of change.
Ruturaj Gaikwad returns to lead the side after injury disrupted his previous campaign. MS Dhoni will likely miss the opening phase with a calf issue, which hands Sanju Samson the gloves and a role at the top alongside Gaikwad.
Injuries continue to shape selection. Dewald Brevis misses the opener, while Nathan Ellis also remains unavailable. Spencer Johnson has joined the squad but is still working towards full fitness.
The batting order still needs clarity. Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan and Urvil Patel compete for the No. 3 spot, while Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma could feature in a refreshed lineup.
With the ball, Noor Ahmad and Matt Henry lead the attack. However, the side still lacks a proven death bowling option, which could test them in tight finishes.
Chennai Super Kings key players to watch
Matt Henry anchors the bowling unit and brings experience across all phases after a strong international run.
Ruturaj Gaikwad carries responsibility at the top, both as captain and as the main run scorer in the absence of key players.
IPL Match Preview – Predicted XIs for Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings clash
Rajasthan Royals squad
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag (c), Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Ravi Bishnoi, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande.
Impact Player: Kuldeep Sen.
Chennai Super Kings squad
Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Anshul Kamboj, MS Dhoni, Jamie Overton, Rahul Chahar, Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmad.
Impact Player: Akeal Hosein.
For details on where to watch the match, check out our full broadcast guide.
Pitch and conditions: Rain in the air in Guwahati
A fresh surface should greet both teams, though rain has disrupted preparations in the lead up to the match. Ground staff kept the pitch under covers on the eve of the game, and forecasts suggest more showers earlier in the day.
Conditions should improve by the evening, but lingering moisture may influence team selections and tactics.
Match preview
This IPL match preview brings together two sides in transition, each searching for identity after a disappointing 2025 season.
Rajasthan look to have addressed key balance issues and hold a slight edge, particularly with their strengthened pace attack and clearer structure. Chennai still search for the right combination, with injuries and selection questions shaping their early campaign.
In a tournament where momentum builds quickly, this contest offers more than just points. It provides an early indication of which side is ready to move forward and re establish itself as a contender.
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