The IPL 2026 season opener in Guwahati saw a dominant display by the Rajasthan Royals (RR), who secured an emphatic eight-wicket victory over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). In a one-sided affair, RR chased down a modest target of 128 in just 12.1 overs, sending a clear message to the rest of the league.
The Chase: Suryavanshi & Jaiswal’s Explosive Power
Rajasthan’s pursuit of 128 was clinical. The young sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi set the tone with a blistering 52, tearing into the CSK bowling attack from the first ball. His aggressive approach allowed Yashasvi Jaiswal to play his natural game, finishing with a composed and unbeaten 38. The pair made the chase look effortless, reaching the target with nearly eight overs to spare.
Smiles all around the Royals camp! 🩷
A dominant chase completed in just 12.1 overs to seal a wonderful winning start in Guwahati 👏
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/UzbuFk5G26#TATAIPL | #KhelBindaas | #RRvCSK | @rajasthanroyals pic.twitter.com/lQ2nnZmqp0
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 30, 2026
The Collapse: RR Bowlers Stifle CSK
Earlier, CSK struggled to find any momentum after being put in to bat. Jofra Archer (2-19) and Nandre Burger (2-26) were lethal at the top and through the middle overs. Burger’s fiery spell earned him the Player of the Match honors. For CSK, Jamie Overton was the lone warrior, top-scoring with 43, but the lack of partnerships meant they could only post a sub-par total of 127.
Emotional Homecoming: Jadeja’s Teary Return
The highlight of the evening wasn’t just the cricket. Ravindra Jadeja, now donning the RR pink, was visibly emotional as the Guwahati crowd—packed with “Yellow Army” fans—chanted his name. After taking a crucial catch, Jadeja performed his signature “sword celebration,” but eyes were moist as he acknowledged the fans of his former franchise.
