Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain Ruturaj Gaikwad hinted at the team’s opening combination for the upcoming Indian Premier League edition. Gaikwad disclosed that he and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson will be the opening pair for CSK in IPL 2026.
After a disappointing campaign last year, CSK struggled with their top order. Various combinations were attempted without success. Following the addition of Sanju Samson, CSK decided to rely on an experienced opening duo.
At the IPL 2026 captain’s meet in Mumbai, Gaikwad confirmed his return to the top of the order alongside the newly acquired Samson. The trade saw Samson moving from Rajasthan Royals to CSK, with Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran going the other way.
CSK faced instability at the top last season, with Gaikwad often batting at No. 3. Despite trying different openers like Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, and Rahul Tripathi, the team found no success until Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis provided much-needed aggression in the powerplay.
As replacement players last season, Mhatre scored 240 runs in seven innings at an average of 34.28 and a strike rate of 188.97, with a notable 94 against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Brevis accumulated 225 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 180.
CSK will kick off their IPL 2026 journey against Rajasthan Royals at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati, on March 30. Their first home match in Chennai is scheduled for April 3 against Punjab Kings, followed by a game against Delhi Capitals on April 11 at M.A Chidambaram Stadium.
