CSK vs PBKS 2026 Playing 11 Prediction, Full Squads, Team News and Player Availabilities and More | IPL 2026

CSK vs PBKS 2026: The IPL 2026 season continues with an exciting clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 3 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. While CSK have historically dominated the league, recent performances suggest PBKS might have the upper hand going into this contest.

Match Preview CSK vs PBKS 2026

Punjab Kings come into this game with strong momentum. Their squad looks balanced, and their auction strategy ahead of the 2025 cycle seems to be paying off. A convincing win over Gujarat Titans in their opening match has boosted their confidence. Cooper Connolly’s impressive debut has strengthened their batting lineup, making them look like a settled unit.

On the other hand, CSK are under pressure after a disappointing start with the bat. However, returning to Chepauk could work in their favour as the pitch is expected to be more batting-friendly compared to their previous outing.

Pitch Report

The Chepauk surface, which traditionally assisted spinners, is now expected to offer good support for batters. Recent matches, including the T20 World Cup fixtures, have seen high-scoring encounters here, with average first-innings scores close to 190+.

Team News & Player Availability

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

• MS Dhoni remains unavailable.
• Dewald Brevis could make a return after showing positive signs in the nets.
• The team will rely heavily on Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson at the top.

Punjab Kings (PBKS):

• Shreyas Iyer is fit and available for selection.
• The team has no major injury concerns.
• Yuzvendra Chahal will play a key role, especially against Samson.

CSK Playing 11 Prediction

Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Sanju Samson (WK), Ayush Mhatre, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Prashant Veer, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Matt Henry

PBKS Playing 11 Prediction

Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (C), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Xavier Bartlett

Head-to-Head Record

The rivalry between CSK and PBKS is evenly poised, with both teams winning 16 matches each. However, PBKS have dominated recent encounters, winning 6 out of the last 7 games against CSK.

Key Players to Watch For CSK vs PBKS 2026

• Ruturaj Gaikwad: CSK’s captain and batting mainstay.
• Sanju Samson: A crucial addition, though his record at Chepauk is modest.
• Shreyas Iyer: PBKS skipper in great touch.
• Yuzvendra Chahal: A proven match-winner with the ball.