Chennai Super Kings face Mumbai Indians in Match 44 of IPL 2026 at Chepauk, with both teams desperate to revive their campaigns. CSK seek consistency at home, while MI aim for redemption after a heavy defeat in the reverse fixture.
Match details
Venue: M. A. Chidambaram Stadium
Date: May 2, 2026
Time: 07:30 PM IST | 07:00 PM PKT | 02:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
Chennai Super Kings have endured an uncharacteristically inconsistent season so far. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, they have managed only three wins in eight matches. Their struggles stem from an inability to dominate matches as they traditionally do, and they now face a must-win phase to stay in playoff contention. Playing at home could provide a crucial boost, but they must deliver a complete performance.
Mumbai Indians have found themselves in an even tougher position. Under Hardik Pandya, they sit ninth on the table and have lost four of their last five matches. Their campaign has been marred by inconsistency and heavy defeats, including a 103-run loss against CSK earlier this season. Despite their struggles, MI still possess the firepower to stage a turnaround if their key players perform.
Key players
Ryan Rickelton has been a bright spot for Mumbai Indians. The wicketkeeper-batter has already scored two centuries this season, including a blistering 123 not out off 55 balls in his previous outing. His ability to dominate the powerplay makes him a crucial figure at the top.
For Chennai Super Kings, Anshul Kamboj has stood out with the ball. The fast bowler has consistently taken wickets while maintaining control over the run flow. His performance in the middle and death overs could play a decisive role against MI’s strong batting lineup.
Head-to-head record
The rivalry between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians remains one of the most competitive in IPL history.
Matches played: 42
Mumbai Indians wins: 22
Chennai Super Kings wins: 20
Tied: 0
No result: 0
Their most recent meeting earlier this season saw CSK emerge victorious.
Pitch report
The Chepauk surface has shown signs of offering more bounce than usual in recent matches. While run-scoring can still be challenging, the overall trend in IPL 2026 suggests that batters have managed to dominate bowlers across venues. The pitch supports both pacers and spinners, but chasing teams have held an advantage in the five matches played here this season. Teams winning the toss are likely to bowl first.
Probable playing XIs
Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Kartik Sharma, Jamie Overton, Akeal Hosein, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, Mukesh Choudhary
Impact Player: Urvil Patel
Mumbai Indians: Will Jacks, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (c), Shardul Thakur, Trent Boult, Ashwani Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, AM Ghazanfar
Impact Player: Robin Minz
Probable match scenarios
If Chennai Super Kings bat first, they are projected to score between 190 and 200, with a powerplay range of 50 to 60. Mumbai Indians, if chasing, could aim higher with a projected total between 215 and 225 and a powerplay score of 65 to 75. The chasing advantage at this venue could play a decisive role once again.
Live streaming and broadcast
India: JioStar Network channels and JioHotstar app and website
Pakistan: IPL available via licensed broadcasters and digital platforms
UK: Coverage through official IPL broadcast partners on TV and streaming apps
Australia: Available on partner sports networks and digital services
Global: Official IPL broadcasters and streaming platforms depending on region
Match prediction
Both teams enter the contest under pressure, with identical win probability reflecting the uncertainty around their form. Chennai Super Kings hold a slight edge due to home conditions and their previous win over Mumbai Indians this season. However, MI’s explosive batting lineup gives them the ability to overturn any situation. The outcome is likely to depend on which side handles pressure better, with the chasing team expected to have a marginal advantage.
