5 key battles in CSK vs DC in Chepauk Chennai Super Kings head into their clash against Delhi Capitals under mounting pressure, with both the batting and bowling units yet to click in IPL 2026.CSK’s bowling has been below par, but the bigger problem remains their poor batting line-up. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and new recruit Sanju Samson are yet to find form, while the absence of Dewald Brevis has left a noticeable void. Their young players also tried to impress.
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Angkrish Raghuvanshi only focused on team wins With two crucial home games in Chepauk within 72 hours, CSK’s campaign could hinge on this stage. However, they face a confident Delhi Capitals side who look much more composed and composed.Despite the recent defeat to Gujarat Titans, DC boasts of strong squad depth. A few players are yet to emerge while KL Rahul has already returned to form with a brilliant 92. After ending Chepauk’s losing streak last season, DC will back themselves to repeat the feat.Five key battles to watch in today’s game
1. KL Rahul vs Khaleel Ahmed
The Powerplay battle could have set the tone. While Rahul is a class operator, left arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed has historically troubled him. In seven meetings, Khaleel dismissed Rahul once and scored just 51 runs, making him a key early match.
2. Shivam Dube vs Kuldeep Yadav
The battle in the middle between Shivam Dube (CSK) and Kuldeep Yadav (DC) is a classic power vs. While Dube is known as an “elite” player of the spin with a strike rate in excess of 160 against them, Kuldeep has historically managed to limit his scoring.
3. Sanju Samson vs Axar Patel
This match is a huge tactical hurdle for Sanju Samson, who has historically found Axar Patel one of the toughest bowlers to score against in the IPL. Axar restricted him to 70 runs off 63 balls at a strike rate of just 111.11, with two dismissals.
4. Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Lungi Ngidi
High competition between former teammates. Lungi Ngidi has had the upper hand so far, dismissing Gaikwad twice in both matches while conceding 10 runs, a worrying statistic for CSK.
5. Sameer Rizvi vs Noor Ahmad
The battle between Sameer Rizvi (DC) and Noor Ahmad (CSK) is a high-stakes clash between the league’s most prolific uncapped batsman and one of its most expensive spinners. While Rizvi is known for his “spin-bashing” reputation, Noor Ahmad provides a unique challenge that Rizvi is yet to face in his young IPL career.
