CSK vs PBKS: Battle of Kings today in Chepauk. Chennai looking for first win, Punjab has a chance to maintain the momentum.

News India Live, Digital Desk: Today in the seventh match of IPL 2026, there is going to be a clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Punjab Kings (PBKS). This match to be held at MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk), Chennai is very important for both the teams. Chennai, captained by Ruturaj Gaikwad, had to face a crushing defeat at the hands of Rajasthan Royals in their first match, while Shreyas Iyer-led Punjab Kings are full of confidence after defeating Gujarat Titans. The history of IPL between Chennai and Punjab has always been exciting. A total of 33 matches have been played between the two teams so far, in which Chennai has won 17 and Punjab has won 16 matches. In terms of statistics, the balance is almost equal, but the recent record seems to be in favor of Punjab. Punjab has won 4 out of its last 5 matches against Chennai, which makes today’s match even more interesting. Chepauk Fort and the role of spinnersChepauk ground has always been helpful for spin bowlers. However, after the recent renovation, a slight change is expected in the nature of the pitch here, but there is every possibility that slow bowlers and spinners will dominate. In the Chennai team, bowlers like Noor Ahmed would like to take advantage of this surface, while Punjab has options like Yuzvendra Chahal and Marcus Stoinis. Whichever team wins the toss, can decide to bowl first considering the moisture of the pitch. Probable playing XI of both the teams. The injury of Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Dewald Brevis remains a matter of concern for Chennai, although Brevis is expected to return. Whereas the Punjab team can take the field with its winning playing eleven. Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brewis/Matty Henry, Shivam Dubey, Karthik Sharma, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmed, Anshul Kamboj, Khalil Ahmed. (Impact Sub: Rahul Chahar) Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Johnson, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vaishak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal. (Impact Sub: Priyansh Arya)