IPL 2026: Ruturaj Gaikwad set to open with Sanju Samson
What's the story
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to revamp their batting order for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has confirmed that he will be opening the innings with Sanju Samson, who was traded in by the Yellow Army. Gaikwad spoke on the sidelines of the Captains' Day. The decision comes after a disappointing 2025 season in which CSK had to make multiple changes in their batting line-up.
Team changes
Solid batting line-up
The 2025 season saw CSK part ways with players like Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, and Deepak Hooda. The side will continue to back young talents Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis. Both these players performed well for the team last year, adding an aggressive touch to the game. While Brevis is likely to keep his middle-order spot, Mhatre may drop down to No. 3 to make the Samson-Gaikwad opening pair work.
Expert opinion
Ashwin's take on opening pair
Ravichandran Ashwin, the former CSK spinner, had earlier expressed his desire to see Samson and Gaikwad open the innings in IPL 2026. He praised their pedigree and quality runs, saying, "For me, I would love to see both of them go hammer and tongs at the opening slot." Ashwin highlighted their different strengths as an advantage for the team.
Schedule
CSK's IPL 2026 matches
CSK, who finished 10th last year, will play their first match of the IPL 2026 against Rajasthan Royals (RR). The much-anticipated clash is scheduled for March 30 at 7:30pm IST. After facing RR, they will take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 3, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 5, and Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 11.