IPL 2026: RR vs CSK, Match 3 – Top player battles to watch out for

The Rajasthan Royals (RR) are set to take on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match No. 3 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on March 30 at the Baraspara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Both teams will be eager to bounce back after disappointing campaigns in IPL 2025, where RR finished ninth and CSK ended at the bottom of the points table. With fresh combinations and renewed intent, this clash promises to be an exciting contest.

Here are 3 player battles for RR vs CSK, Match 3 of IPL 2026:

3) Yashasvi Jaiswal vs Khaleel Ahmed

The face-off between RR opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and CSK pacer Khaleel Ahmed is always entertaining to watch out for. In five T20 innings against Khaleel, Jaiswal has scored 58 runs off just 28 balls at a strike rate exceeding 200, showcasing his aggressive intent. However, Khaleel has managed to dismiss him twice, often troubling him with deliveries that angle into the batter. With Khaleel likely to operate in the powerplay, this contest could set the tone for RR’s innings. Jaiswal will look to capitalise on scoring opportunities, while Khaleel will aim to strike early and put pressure on the Royals.

2) Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Sandeep Sharma

CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad’s contest against Sandeep Sharma adds another interesting layer to the game. In seven innings against the experienced pacer, Gaikwad has scored 50 runs from 51 deliveries and has been dismissed once. Sandeep’s strength lies in swinging the new ball, especially during the powerplay, which can trouble even technically sound batters like Gaikwad. While Gaikwad likes to play attacking strokes early on, Sandeep’s ability to maintain tight lines and generate movement has kept him relatively quiet, making this a closely fought battle.

1) Sanju Samson vs Ravindra Jadeja

On top of the list, the battle between CSK wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson and RR’s star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is an intriguing one. The two have faced each other in 12 innings, with Samson managing 84 runs off 65 balls while being dismissed three times. Although Samson is known for his ability against spin, Jadeja’s disciplined line and length often restrict his scoring opportunities. The left-arm spinner’s subtle variations in pace and accuracy make it difficult for Samson to play freely, giving Jadeja a slight edge in this contest.