CSK vs RR: Match Preview & Playing XI
The third match of Indian Premier League 2026 promises to be an intense battle between CSK and RR at Barsapara Cricket Stadium. With key players like MS Dhoni unsure to play, both teams will have to rely on their depth and tactics to secure a win.

Highlights
- •Mahendra Singh Dhoni's uncertain participation
- •CSK's strong lineup led by Ruturaj Gaikwad
- •Rajasthan Royals' potent bowling attack complemented by aggressive batting line-up
- •Possible match-changing role of Dewald Brevis and Yashasvi Jaiswal
The third match of the Indian Premier League 2026 is set to be an electrifying encounter between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Scheduled for a dramatic start time at 7:30 PM, the match will witness a rekindled rivalry that has garnered significant interest from cricket enthusiasts.
Chennai Super Kings, champions multiple times in IPL history, face an unexpected challenge with one of their key players, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, unsure to take the field. Despite reports suggesting a calf injury could sideline him for two weeks, CSK's lineup will still be formidable under the captainship of Ruturaj Gaikwad and supported by experienced hitters such as Sanju Samson.
The Rajasthan Royals hold their own with a strong bowling attack that complements their potent batting line-up. Captain Riyan Parag and aggressive opener Yashasvi Jaiswal together form the nucleus of an attacking partnership that could change the complexion of this match. Meanwhile, veteran Ravindra Jadeja provides much-needed stability in the middle order.
CSK's Expectations from Key Players
The Chennai Super Kings have high expectations for their key players who will need to step up and deliver. Alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson, seasoned campaigners like Ayush Mhatre can bring the necessary balance to the game. Dewald Brevis brings fresh energy with his explosive batting potential in the middle order, capable of delivering crucial runs when needed.
CSSH Playing XI: Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper), Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Anshul Kamboj, Rahul Chahar, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed.
RR Playing XI: Riyan Parag (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Adam Milne.
Both teams bring strong strategies to the table. The CSK will rely on their star-studded lineup to navigate through a tough opening and ensure stability in the middle order. Conversely, RR looks to leverage its bowling prowess and aggressive batting to upset the expected script of this exciting contest.














