CSK talisman Dhoni would be eyeing a record sixth title in what could well be his farewell season.
| Photo Credit: R. RAGU
When you are at the bottom, the only way is up. That could well be Chennai Super Kings’ mantra for the 2026 season. The five-time champion slipped into an abyss last season when it won just four games and had the ignominy of finishing with the wooden spoon for the first time.
The major problem was that it lacked the batting firepower to keep pace with its rivals, who had all pushed the game forward through their fearless approach and posted imposing totals.
Midway through the campaign, CSK course-corrected by drafting in promising youngsters like Dewald Brevis, Ayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel as injury replacements, who now form a formidable core.
A more emphatic indication of that shift came during the off-season when it pulled off one of the biggest deals by signing Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals.
At the mini-auction, Super Kings, armed with a hefty purse, further splurged on two young uncapped Indian players — Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma — known for their power-hitting.
If the pitch at Chepauk resembles the featherbeds that were dished out during the recent ICC T20 World Cup, expect some mammoth totals from the Yellow Brigade.
While the Chennai outfit has bolstered its batting, its bowling is an area of concern. Last year, only Noor Ahmad and Khaleel Ahmed delivered with the ball, and a lot depends on them again.
To make matters worse, pacer Nathan Ellis was ruled out a week ago. The Australian was expected to be the crucial component during the death overs, especially after Sri Lanka speedster Matheesha Pathirana was released. Spencer Johnson, Ellis’ replacement, is returning from a long layoff and is expected to join only by April 21.
The Dhoni factor
How and where M.S. Dhoni fits into the CSK equation is a key aspect. The 44-year-old can bat just a few overs, but the experience he brings in remains vital for skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is still finding his feet. It will be interesting to see how the legend goes about his business in what could well be his farewell season.
Sport is replete with examples of storied franchises stuck in a rut and just basking in past glory. Super Kings enter the 19th edition in unfamiliar territory after having failed to qualify for the playoffs in two consecutive editions — a first in their decorated history — and would want to bring cheer to their legion of fans by winning a record sixth title.
Published – March 26, 2026 05:55 pm IST
