Chennai Super Kings face Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, with both sides rebuilding after poor 2025 IPL campaigns and betting markets shaped by squad changes and venue trends.
Match context
Rajasthan Royals meet Chennai Super Kings in Match 3 of IPL 2026 at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Monday.
Both teams are looking to reset after disappointing 2025 seasons, where CSK finished bottom and RR ended ninth. The fixture also carries added narrative with key player movements between the sides.
Form and team overview
Chennai Super Kings are entering a transitional phase. Ruturaj Gaikwad leads the side, while Sanju Samson joins from Rajasthan and is expected to take on a central role in the batting unit.
Their squad includes a mix of youth and experience, with Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube providing middle-order support. However, MS Dhoni’s absence through injury reduces their experience in key moments.
Rajasthan Royals have also reshaped their squad under new captain Riyan Parag. The addition of Ravindra Jadeja strengthens their balance, but their bowling unit remains a concern after last season’s struggles.
Head-to-head and key stats
The head-to-head record is level at 16-16, highlighting how evenly matched these sides have been historically.
Rajasthan won the most recent meeting in May 2025. Given both teams’ recent positions near the bottom of the table, this match represents an early opportunity to build momentum.
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Pitch and conditions
Baraspara typically offers balanced conditions. The average first innings score ranges between 150 and 160, with batting remaining consistent across both innings.
Dew can play a role in evening matches, making chasing slightly more favourable. Bowlers need accuracy, as inconsistent lengths are often punished.
Key players and matchups
Ruturaj Gaikwad (4.65) and Sanju Samson (4.90) lead CSK’s batting markets, while Yashasvi Jaiswal (5.00) anchors Rajasthan’s top order.
Noor Ahmad (4.45) and Khaleel Ahmed (4.80) provide CSK with control, while Matt Henry (4.85) adds depth.
The Samson vs RR bowling matchup adds an additional layer, given his previous role within the franchise.
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Betting angle
CSK are priced at 1.75, with RR at 2.10, suggesting a narrow edge for Chennai.
Boundary markets are balanced. Over 31.5 fours (1.85) aligns with conditions, while under 17.5 sixes (1.80) reflects the ground’s scoring profile.
CSK are marginal favourites for top batter (1.75) and top bowler (1.80), indicating a slightly stronger overall unit.
The takeaway
CSK’s slightly stronger balance and batting depth give them a narrow edge in a closely priced contest.
Over 31.5 fours is worth considering, while the match result market reflects limited separation between the sides.
Photo: Prakash Singh/Getty Images
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