Shreyas Iyer has been cleared to play this match, whereas Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are expected to miss Dewald Brevis and MS Dhoni.
Overview – Can CSK reclaim their home dominance?
Following CSK vs PBKS disappointing loss in Guwahati, Michael Hussey found some comfort in the fact that their next fixture would be at home. However, even in Guwahati, the Assam Cricket Association Stadium was packed with CSK supporters, which seemed to frustrate Riyan Parag, who might have anticipated stronger backing at his home ground during his first full-time IPL captaincy appearance.
Returning to Chennai could benefit CSK vs PBKS, especially considering the nature of the pitch, which now favors a different batting style. Players like Sanju Samson, who has been striking a six roughly every eight balls in T20 cricket this year, could thrive under such conditions.
CSK vs PBKS: Match Preview, Probable Lineups
That said, Punjab Kings (PBKS) are equally capable of aggressive hitting. Openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh have scored over half of their IPL sixes during the powerplay. In the middle overs, Shreyas Iyer maintains a highly efficient scoring rate, while Shashank Singh ranked among the top six-hitters in the death overs during IPL 2025.
Historically, PBKS have performed well against CSK in Chennai, winning five out of nine matches. They have also won their last three games at Chepauk. Last season saw CSK vs PBKS struggle at home, winning only one of six matches. The question now is whether they can restore their stronghold this year.
Key Battle
A crucial contest to watch will be between Shivam Dube and Yuzvendra Chahal.
Team Updates and Probable XIs
Dewald Brevis is still recovering from a side injury. Although he spent time in the nets, his practice was limited, making his return unlikely. His absence could once again expose CSK vs PBKS middle-order weakness. Notably, CSK’s season opener marked their first match without MS Dhoni or Suresh Raina in the lineup, and this upcoming game will be only the third time they play at Chepauk without Dhoni.
Chennai Super Kings (probable XI):
Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt), Ayush Mhatre, Matt Short, Shivam Dube, Sarfaraz Khan/Prashant Veer, Kartik Sharma, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmed, Matt Henry, Anshul Kamboj, Khaleel Ahmed
On the CSK vs PBKS side, assistant coach Brad Haddin confirmed that Shreyas Iyer’s hand injury is not a concern. Head coach Ricky Ponting also highlighted how the squad has improved since finishing as runners-up last season. The inclusion of Cooper Connolly, who has even batted at No. 3 ahead of Iyer, reflects their strong recruitment strategy. With batting depth extending to No. 8 and multiple bowling options, PBKS appear well-balanced.
Punjab Kings (probable XI):
Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper) are expected to open, followed by Cooper Connolly and captain Shreyas Iyer in the top order. Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh strengthen the middle, while Marcus Stoinis and Marco Jansen add all-round depth. The bowling unit is likely to feature Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, and Yuzvendra Chahal CSK vs PBKS.
Ruturaj Gaikwad has struggled recently, recording six single-digit scores in his last ten IPL innings. After missing a significant part of the previous season due to injury, he returns as both opener and captain. Despite this, he boasts an impressive record at Chepauk, with 764 runs at an average of 50.9 and a strike rate of 142.
Marcus Stoinis, one of only two players to score a century against CSK vs PBKS at Chepauk, could be key for PBKS. Batting at No. 6 may limit his chances of a big score, but he will likely feel confident at this venue despite a duck in his season opener.
Stats & Insights
- Arshdeep Singh and Khaleel Ahmed have been among the most effective left-arm pacers since 2024, especially in the powerplay, with 40 and 31 wickets respectively.
- Both bowlers have favorable records against the opposition captains. Arshdeep has dismissed Gaikwad three times, while Khaleel has removed Shreyas Iyer on three occasions.
- Yuzvendra Chahal has a strong record against CSK, including a hat-trick in Chennai and 23 wickets against them at an economy of 7.1. He has also dismissed Sanju Samson five times in 12 innings.
- Overall, CSK and PBKS are evenly matched historically with 16 wins each, but PBKS have dominated since 2022, winning five of their last six encounters.
Pitch & Conditions – Chepauk Update
During the T20 World Cup, Chennai pitches offered pace and bounce, making stroke play easier for batters. This trend may continue in the IPL. Some grass is expected on the surface, and temperatures are likely to range between 26°C and 35°C. Notably, this is the same venue where India posted 256/4 against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup.
Quotes
Ruturaj Gaikwad mentioned uncertainty about how the Chepauk pitch will behave, especially with possible dew affecting the second innings.
Brad Haddin praised Priyansh Arya, recalling how impressed the coaching staff were after seeing him in training sessions…Read more
Upcoming Fixtures
Chennai Super Kings:
- April 5 vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Bengaluru)
- April 11 vs Delhi Capitals (Chennai)
- April 14 vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Chennai)
Punjab Kings:
- April 6 vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Kolkata)
- April 11 vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (New Chandigarh)
- April 16 vs Mumbai Indians (Mumbai)
