Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 30 with an away match against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, as the schedule for the opening phase of the tournament has been announced. The 2026 edition of the league will start on March 28, with franchises playing matches across multiple venues in India.
CSK will once again play their home matches at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk) in Chennai, continuing their long-standing association with the venue. As per the IPL format, each team will play 14 league matches seven at home and seven away during the group stage.
Among the early marquee fixtures is the high-profile clash between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru scheduled for April 5 in Bengaluru, a rivalry that remains one of the most anticipated contests in the IPL calendar.
CSK – IPL 2026 Fixtures
- March 30: Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings — Guwahati
- April 03: Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings — Chennai
- April 5: Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru — Bengaluru
- April 11: Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals — Chennai
The remaining fixtures of the league stage are expected to be announced in phases due to logistical considerations related to the election schedule in certain states. CSK will enter the season under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad, with the franchise aiming to add another trophy to its cabinet after winning the championship five times. With experienced campaigners and emerging talent in the squad, the team will look to mount another strong title challenge.
Fans in Chennai are expected to pack the Chepauk stadium once again as the “Yellow Army” prepares for another highly anticipated IPL campaign.
-Samuthiran
