Rajasthan Royals (RR) will tackle Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match No. 3 of the Indian Premier League 2026 on March 30 on the Baraspara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. RR had a forgettable outing in IPL 2025, ending their campaign in ninth place on the points table.
The 2008 champions will probably be keen to regain their rhythm and stage a powerful comeback this season. With a revamped squad, including the addition of Ravindra Jadeja, the Royals will look to enhance their performances and contend seriously for a second IPL title.
Meanwhile, CSK also had a difficult IPL 2025, ending at the underside of the standings. Despite being one of the successful teams in IPL history with five titles, they may aim to show things around this season.
Nonetheless, the team will probably be without their iconic captain MS Dhoni for the opening phase, as he has been sidelined for 2 weeks on account of a calf injury. In his absence, Sanju Samson, a recent addition to the squad, is anticipated to take over wicketkeeping duties.
Either side will probably be wanting to move past last season’s setbacks and kick off their IPL 2026 campaign on a positive note.
Match Details & Live Streaming
Venue: Baraspara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati
Date & Time: Monday, March 30, 7:30 PM (IST)
Live Broadcasting & Streaming Details: JioStar Network Channels, JioHotstar
RR vs CSK: Head-to-Head record
Matches Played – 32
Won by RR – 16
Won by CSK – 16
Pitch Report
The pitch on the Baraspara Cricket Stadium often favours teams bowling first, as chasing becomes easier under lights on account of the presence of dew. The common first-innings rating is around 150–160, indicating that the surface offers decent batting conditions across each innings. Nonetheless, bowlers must maintain accuracy of their line and length, as even slight errors may be heavily punished on this track.
Team Evaluation
Rajasthan Royals: RR enter the season with a refreshed squad and renewed intent. Their batting looks strong with players like Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal expected to steer from the front. The addition of Ravindra Jadeja strengthens each their middle order and bowling attack, giving them much-needed balance.
Their bowling unit, which incorporates quality pacers and spinners, may be effective, especially on slower surfaces. Nonetheless, RR’s inconsistency last season stays a priority. If their top order fires, they will dominate, but collapses under pressure have hurt them previously.
Chennai Super Kings: CSK, despite being five-time champions, had a poor IPL 2025. The absence of MS Dhoni (injury) is a significant setback, as his leadership and ending ability are crucial. Nonetheless, CSK still possess a powerful core with experienced players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounders who bring depth.
Their bowling attack, traditionally disciplined, will probably be key in controlling RR’s aggressive batting. CSK’s strength lies of their experience and skill to handle pressure situations, but their recent form raises concerns.
Match Prediction
On the Baraspara Cricket Stadium, dew is anticipated to play a key role within the evening, making chasing easier. This offers a bonus to the team bowling first. RR look more settled with a stronger batting lineup and higher all-round depth, especially with players like Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja.
However, CSK may struggle barely on account of the absence of MS Dhoni, which affects each leadership and ending strength.
Prediction: Rajasthan Royals prone to win
RR vs CSK: Predicted Playing XI
Rajasthan Royals (RR):
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag (C), Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Adam Milne
Chennai Super Kings (CSK):
Sanju Samson (WK), Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Anshul Kamboj, Rahul Chahar, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed
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