In the 18th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) finally found their rhythm at the Chepauk, clinching their first win of the 2026 season by defeating Delhi Capitals (DC) by 23 runs.
Batting first, the home team’s innings was defined by a spectacular return to form for Sanju Samson (115), who anchored the innings with a superb hundred off just 56 balls. Post the early departure of skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (15), Samson took control, finding a perfect partner in young Ayush Mhatre (59). The young batter played the role of the aggressor early on, which allowed Samson to settle before shifting gears. The unit further utilised a “retired out” tactic with Mhatre to bring in Shivam Dube (20) for a late-overpower surge, propelling CSK to a formidable total of 212/2.
While chasing, DC began with high intensity, as Pathum Nissanka (41) and KL Rahul (18) put on 61 runs in less than five overs. However, the dismissal of the openers triggered a loss of momentum. Tristan Stubbs (60) was the lone warrior in the middle order, but he lacked sustained support from the other end. Furthermore, David Miller (17) and Ashutosh Sharma (19) got starts but failed to convert them into the big scores needed to chase 213. The team was eventually bowled out for 189.
Defending a big total, CSK’s bowling unit showed great discipline despite a rapid start from the opposition. Jamie Overton was the standout performer, delivering a match-winning spell of 4/18 in his 4 overs. Anshul Kamboj provided crucial support, picking up 3 wickets (3/35) to derail the middle order just as DC looked to rebuild. While Khaleel Ahmed and Noor Ahmad were slightly more expensive, the constant wicket-taking pressure ensured that the required run rate stayed out of reach for the visitors.
For DC with the ball, Axar Patel was the most economical of the lot, finishing with 1/39 and providing the only real control during the middle overs. DC’s inability to take wickets in the middle phase allowed CSK to dictate the terms and reach a score that proved too high to chase.
With this win, CSK finally won their first game of the season.
Scorecard:
Chennai Super Kings: 212/2, Overs 20, Sanju Samson 115, Axar Patel 1/39
Delhi Capitals: 189/10, Overs 20, Tristan Stubbs 60, Anshul Kamboj 3/35
