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

The Chennai Super Kings finally got their campaign underway with a victory over the Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 11. This was their first win of IPL 2026, and their first victory at Chepauk in the last six games.  With a complete performance with bat, ball and in the field, they looked to have found balance in their combinations.

Rife with bowling options which suit the Chennai wicket, and with star batters finding runs again, the hopes are that this continues as an upward trend. While they still have a few gaps to address, they will be looking to carry forward the momentum when the Kolkata Knight Riders visit the Chepauk on April 14. 

Here is CSK's strongest probable XI vs KKR in Match 22:

Top order: Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt), Sanju Samson (wk), Ayush Mhatre 

Sanju Samson is finally off the mark for the Super Kings. The opener notched up his first century in yellow against the Delhi Capitals. It was an innings of trademark Samson elegance as he manipulated the field and displayed his graceful strokeplay. On the other hand, Ruturaj Gaikwad is yet to get his season running. Against the Capitals, the skipper made a laborious 15 off 18 balls and has been criticised for his inability to start innings well. 

Ayush Mhatren scored his second half-century of the season against the Delhi Capitals and looks to have locked the spot at one-drop for himself. While there is a case for him and Ruturaj swapping positions due to the runs he scored as an opener in 2025, the youngster has excelled even in this new role.