Will CSK's seismic shift result in a sixth crown?

When CSK returned to the IPL in 2018, they were labelled the 'Dad's Army,' preferring experience over youth. They answered with three titles in six years. However, missing the playoffs in the last two seasons has forced a seismic shift in policy.

MS Dhoni remains, but the squad now has a youthful look. Having integrated Ayush Mhatre and Dewald Brevis mid-season in 2025, CSK splurged ₹14.2 crore each on 19-year-old Kartik Sharma and 20-year-old Prashant Veer. Consequently, four players under 22 will likely feature in CSK's top seven.

Not to forget the addition of Sanju Samson to the top of the order, which resulted in the team parting ways with one of their all-time greats, Ravindra Jadeja.

CSK have realised the need for exuberance in their batting unit in the era of the Impact Player and flat decks. Depth in batting has been prioritised, and even the change in the nature of pitches at Chepauk signals a more proactive approach with the bat for the five-time champions.

Probable XI: Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Shivam Dube, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni (wk), Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Matt Henry, Khaleel Ahmed

Injury/Availability Watch: Nathan Ellis being ruled out is a significant blow. Matthew Short sustained an injury but has now joined the squad ahead of the tournament.

What they do better than most: Only the champions (RCB) had a better dot-ball percentage than CSK in 2025. Khaleel Ahmed was instrumental, taking the joint-most wickets (10) in that phase last season. This time he could be complemented by Matt Henry or Akeal Hosein, both shrewd operators with the new ball.

A player that changes their ceiling: Sanju Samson brings spark, confidence, and a huge fan base. Buoyed by his T20 World Cup success, where he was Player of the Tournament, Samson is expected to turn CSK's fortunes around at the top of the order in the Powerplay, where they struggled in the last two seasons.

Weakness: Lack of bowling quality at the death. With Ellis ruled out and Matheesha Pathirana released, CSK must find alternatives. Some of their top pace bowlers are more suited to making an impact with the new ball.

Dewald Brevis and Ayush Mhatre: These two injected life into CSK's campaign towards the end of 2025. Brevis, now a regular for South Africa and coming off a century in the SA20 final, will be a key finisher. Mhatre might also have a role with the ball, as CSK lack a designated off-spinner in their primary XI.

Opening fixture: An early trip to Bengaluru on April 5 to face defending champions RCB. CSK's stranglehold at the Chinnaswamy has lessened recently, and RCB's champion status adds spice to the contest.