Ruturaj Gaikwad gets loud reception as CSK set to bat first at Chepauk
Chennai Super Kings received strong support from the crowd as Ruturaj Gaikwad walked out for the toss, with the home fans responding loudly to their captain in their first game in Chennai this season.
Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and chose to bowl, meaning CSK will bat first on what appears to be a dry surface. Gaikwad said the pitch looks unlikely to change much and does not expect dew to play a major role. He added that putting runs on the board could be key, as the surface should allow teams to defend totals.
This match marks CSK’s first home fixture of the season, with the side looking to respond after a heavy defeat against Rajasthan in their previous game.
PBKS back bowling call, CSK look to reset
Iyer said the decision to bowl was based on the fresh nature of the wicket, with the aim of understanding how it plays early on. He also addressed his recent hand injury, stating that he is focusing on staying positive and composed.
Punjab Kings come into the match with confidence after their opening win and a strong recent record against CSK. Iyer said the team will focus on playing to their strengths and building on momentum from the last game.
CSK have made one change, with Prashant Veer replacing Matt Short, as they look to find the right balance early in the season.
Punjab Kings (Playing XI):
Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal
Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI):
Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Matt Henry, Khaleel Ahmed
Punjab Kings Impact Subs:
Suryansh Shedge, Priyansh Arya, Vishnu Vinod, Pravin Dubey, Harpreet Brar
Chennai Super Kings Impact Subs:
Jamie Overton, Rahul Chahar, Matthew Short, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Gurjapneet Singh