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Rajasthan Royals (RR) will take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match No. 3 of the Indian Premier League 2026 on March 30 at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. RR had a forgettable outing in IPL 2025, ending their campaign in ninth place on the points table.

The 2008 champions will be keen to regain their rhythm and stage a strong comeback this season. With a revamped squad, including the addition of Ravindra Jadeja, the Royals will look to improve their performances and contend seriously for a second IPL title.

Meanwhile, CSK also had a difficult IPL 2025, finishing at the bottom of the standings. Despite being one of the most successful teams in IPL history with five titles, they will aim to turn things around this season.

However, the team will be without their iconic captain MS Dhoni for the opening phase, as he has been sidelined for two weeks due to a calf injury. In his absence, Sanju Samson, a recent addition to the squad, is expected to take over wicketkeeping duties.

Both sides will be eager to move past last season’s setbacks and kick off their IPL 2026 campaign on a positive note.

Match Details & Live Streaming

Venue: Baraspara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati

Date & Time: Monday, March 30, 7:30 PM (IST)

Live Broadcasting & Streaming Details: JioStar Network Channels, JioHotstar

RR vs CSK: Head-to-Head record

Matches Played – 32

Won by RR – 16

Won by CSK – 16

Pitch Report

The pitch at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium usually favours teams bowling first, as chasing becomes easier under lights due to the presence of dew. The average first-innings score is around 150–160, indicating that the surface offers decent batting conditions across both innings. However, bowlers must maintain accuracy in their line and length, as even slight errors can be heavily punished on this track.

Team Analysis

Rajasthan Royals: RR enter the season with a refreshed squad and renewed intent. Their batting looks strong with players like Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal expected to lead from the front. The addition of Ravindra Jadeja strengthens both their middle order and bowling attack, giving them much-needed balance.

Their bowling unit, which includes quality pacers and spinners, can be effective, especially on slower surfaces. However, RR’s inconsistency last season remains a concern. If their top order fires, they can dominate, but collapses under pressure have hurt them in the past.

Chennai Super Kings: CSK, despite being five-time champions, had a poor IPL 2025. The absence of MS Dhoni (injury) is a major setback, as his leadership and finishing ability are crucial. However, CSK still possess a strong core with experienced players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounders who bring depth.

Their bowling attack, traditionally disciplined, will be key in controlling RR’s aggressive batting. CSK’s strength lies in their experience and ability to handle pressure situations, but their recent form raises concerns.

Match Prediction

At the Baraspara Cricket Stadium, dew is expected to play a key role in the evening, making chasing easier. This gives an advantage to the team bowling first. RR look more settled with a stronger batting lineup and better all-round depth, especially with players like Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja.

On the other hand, CSK may struggle slightly due to the absence of MS Dhoni, which affects both leadership and finishing strength.

Prediction: Rajasthan Royals likely to win

RR vs CSK: Predicted Playing XI

Rajasthan Royals (RR):

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag (C), Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Adam Milne

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

Sanju Samson (WK), Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Anshul Kamboj, Rahul Chahar, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed

This article first appeared on Cricfit and was syndicated with permission.

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