GT vs CSK, IPL 2026 preview: Chennai Super Kings need big win vs Gujarat Titans to stay alive in playoffs race

Ahmedabad : Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings return to a venue that holds a special place in their history. It was here in 2023 that CSK beat Gujarat Titans off the last ball to win the IPL for the fifth time.


At the same venue two months ago, CSK’s new recruit Sanju Samson smashed 89 off 46 balls against New Zealand in the T20 WC final to help India win their third title. Come Thursday, CSK will be hoping for an encore from their wicketkeeper-batter when they take on GT in their final league match.






There is plenty riding on the clash for GT, who have already qualified for the playoffs. They are looking to bounce back from a 29-run loss to Kolkata Knight Riders, but their larger goal is a top-two finish, which will give them two shots at making the final. CSK’s defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last match pushed them to the brink. They not only need to beat GT convincingly to improve their net run rate but also need other results to go their way to remain in contention for the last playoff spot.


The onus will again be on Samson and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad to give CSK a brisk start. No. 3 Urvil Patel, who plays his domestic cricket here, and the middle order will look to make the most of what is expected to be a batting-friendly surface and a fast outfield.
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