Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings return to their fortress with renewed ambition, guided by young leadership Rituraj Their home campaign kicks off at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, where they face Punjab Kings in what promises to be a gripping contest steeped in Chepauk’s unique atmosphere.
With seven matches scheduled at their stronghold, CSK fans can look forward to a run of high-energy encounters. Chepauk once again sets the stage for intense T20 battles, where crowd energy and home advantage often play a defining role. Chepauk is ready to roar “Dhoni! Dhoni!” across the stadium, painted in a sea of yellow.
CSK will play seven home matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium across the league stage.
Match 7: Apr 3 – CSK vs Punjab Kings – 7:30 PM
Match 18: Apr 11 – CSK vs Delhi Capitals – 7:30 PM
Match 22: Apr 14 – CSK vs Kolkata Knight Riders – 7:30 PM
Match 44: May 2 – CSK vs Mumbai Indians – 7:30 PM
Match 53: May 10 – CSK vs Lucknow Super Giants – 3:30 PM
Match 56: May 18 – CSK vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – 7:30 PM
Match 66: May 21 – CSK vs Gujarat Titans – 7:30 PM
‘El Clasico’ on 2 May CSK vs MI
This is one of the biggest rivalries in the IPL, so fans can expect an exciting game. With strong support from the home crowd, Chennai Super Kings will try to make the most of their conditions, while Mumbai Indians will aim to put up a tough fight, featuring former captain Rohit Sharma, current skipper Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah, one of the best in the business at the moment. On the other hand, with the experience of MS Dhoni, along with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and new addition Sanju Samson, CSK will look to make this rivalry even more exciting.
Top-Order Firepower vs CSK’s Bowling on 18 May CSK vs SRH
Key battles to watch include Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, and Ishan Kishan against CSK’s experienced bowler Matheesha Pathirana with the new ball. In the middle overs, Shivam Dube will be key against the Hyderabad spinners. Heinrich Klaasen could be a big threat in the middle, especially against CSK’s spin attack. With both teams having strong batters at the top, the match will be intense for sure.
Chepauk – The Fortress of Emotions
MA Chidambaram Stadium has always been more than just a cricket ground it’s the heart of Chennai Super Kings. From unforgettable IPL nights to dominant home performances, Chepauk is known for its “Thala,” MS Dhoni a boy from Jharkhand adopted by Chennai, whose story we are all living.
That legacy continues in IPL 2026, with every game carrying extra emotion. With chants of “Dhoni! Dhoni!” echoing through the stands, this season could also be one of the final times fans witness MS Dhoni at his home ground, making every moment even more special.