Match Prediction
Chennai Super Kings face Delhi Capitals in Chennai after three consecutive defeats in IPL 2026. Delhi have two wins from three matches and sit fourth on the table. CSK are under pressure following back-to-back seasons without playoffs and a poor start this year. The match follows public criticism of CSK’s coaching setup and management decisions after the 2025 mega auction.
Toss & Conditions
The match will be played on a surface expected to be less favorable for run-scoring in the first innings. Conditions suggest that batting may become easier later, making the toss and second-innings chase strategy significant.
Head-to-Head
In the last three meetings, Delhi Capitals won twice while Chennai Super Kings won once.
Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings are 10th in the IPL 2026 regular season with 0 points and a record of 0 wins and 3 losses. They have lost their last three matches against Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals are 4th in the IPL 2026 regular season with 4 points from 2 wins and 1 loss. They defeated Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants before losing to Gujarat Titans.
Playing XI
News & Facts
- MS Dhoni remains unavailable due to a calf injury.
- Coach Stephen Fleming confirmed Dewald Brevis is close to full fitness.
- Sarfaraz Khan has scored 99 runs in three innings at a strike rate of 202.
- CSK failed to reach the playoffs in both 2024 and 2025, their first consecutive misses.
- CSK spent INR 28.4 crore on young players Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer in the December mini auction.
Key Stats
Verdict
Key stats favor Delhi Capitals 8–0, with higher points, better NRR, stronger Elo rating, and superior economy rates across all phases. All four predictive models favor DC, averaging 67% win probability for them. Bookmakers also lean toward DC at 57% (odds 1.70) versus CSK at 43% (odds 2.17). The decisive factors are DC’s stronger form, superior bowling metrics, and CSK’s three-match losing streak.