IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings' strongest predicted XI against Kolkata Knight Riders

Middle order: Dewald Brevis, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton

The addition of Dewald Brevis adds significant impetus to the Super Kings' middle order. The South African batter has the power to influence games with his clean ball-striking and wide array of shots. Sarfaraz Khan has seen a resurgence in 2026, having scored at a fast rate while coming in in the middle overs. His unconventional shots, combined with his ability to score off spin, have made him one of CSK’s most reliable batters in the early stages of the 2026 season.

Shivam Dube has largely been used as a finisher, coming in the last few overs to launch the ball all over the park. He scored an unbeaten 45 off 27 balls against the Punjab Kings and an unbeaten 20 off 10 balls against the Delhi Capitals. Both were innings where he took on the bowlers in the back end, helping them reach totals above 200. Jamie Overton was impressive with the ball, picking up 4/18 against the Capitals, but has stepped up with the bat, with scores of 37 and 43* in the games he has batted in.