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Chennai Super Kings, five-time champions, will clash with the first winners, Rajasthan Royals, in the third match of IPL 2026 on Monday, March 30. Both teams are going into the new season to turn things around following poor performances last year.

CSK and RR suffered in 2025, and they each finished bottom of the table with eight points. CSK finished at the bottom as their net run rate was inferior, and RR were just above them, finishing in ninth position. Both franchises are resolute to recover, and they have gone on the offensive during the offseason to bolster their teams.

The high-profile deal has been the high-profile trade involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson, with the first one, RR, seeing Jadeja back and the latter, CSK, seeing Samson swap in a historic deal. RR have also reinforced their bowling strike by acquiring Ravi Bishnoi, whilst CSK concentrated on funding the potential talent at the auction time.

Leadership developments make the situation even more interesting. The CSK captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, remains, and Riyan Parag replaces Samson at RR. Injuries to key players will, however, be a slight concern to CSK. Nathan Ellis has been dismissed, and MS Dhoni and Dewald Brevis will be missing the first matches.

Also Read: IPL 2026: Why MS Dhoni missing games might actually be the best thing that could happen to CSK

RR vs CSK Pitch Report: Barsapara Stadium

The pitch in the Barsapara Stadium will likely be favourable to batters. India chased 153 against New Zealand in 10 overs in a recent match in the same venue, which indicates that the venue is very high scoring. There is also a risk that with dew likely to be a factor, the winning side in the toss might like to chase.

RR vs CSK: Guwahati Weather Update

The weather is predicted to be a bit cloudy in Guwahati at the time of the match, with a slight possibility of rain interruptions. The temperatures will be expected to remain around the early 20s with fairly good playing conditions.

RR vs CSK Head-to-Head Record

Matches Played

31

Won by CSK

16

Won by RR

15

Tie/NR

0

First-ever fixture

5 May 2008 (RR won)

Last fixture

20 May 2025 (RR won)

The match between the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is one of the most equal and interesting ones in the history of the IPL. In the past, the competition between RR and CSK has been fought tightly. However, in recent years, the Royals have won eight of their last 10 encounters against the Super Kings and will look to begin their IPL 2026 campaign with another win on Sunday.