Rajasthan Royals (RR) opened their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign with a comprehensive eight-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Monday.
After winning the toss, RR captain Riyan Parag opted to bowl first, citing moisture in the pitch following recent rain. The decision paid off immediately as RR’s pace attack dismantled CSK’s top order.
Nandre Burger struck early to remove Sanju Samson for 6, while Jofra Archer dismissed CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad for the same score. Ayush Mhatre fell for a duck soon after, leaving CSK struggling at 19/3 inside four overs.
© instagram.com/chennaiiplSandeep Sharma added to the pressure by removing Matthew Short, reducing CSK to 38/4. By the end of the powerplay, Chennai were reeling at 41/4.
Ravindra Jadeja made an impact against his former franchise, picking up two quick wickets in his first over. He dismissed Sarfaraz Khan (17) and Shivam Dube (6), leaving CSK at 57/6 after eight overs.
Despite a fighting 43 from Jamie Overton and contributions from Kartik Sharma (18), CSK were bowled out for 127 in 19.4 overs. Burger, Archer and Jadeja shared six wickets between them.
Chasing 128, RR made an aggressive start with Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal putting together a 75-run opening stand.
Suryavanshi dominated the innings with a 17-ball 52, including four boundaries and five sixes. He brought up his half-century in just 15 balls, registering one of the fastest fifties for the franchise.
After his dismissal, Jaiswal (38 not out) and Dhruv Jurel (18) continued the momentum. RR crossed the 100-run mark inside nine overs before sealing the chase in 12.1 overs.
Riyan Parag (14 not out) and Jaiswal ensured there were no further setbacks as RR completed a comfortable victory to begin their season.
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