Can Dewald Brevis rejuvenate CSK’s lost glory?:Samson-Gaikwad’s slump, DC eye to regain winning momentum at Chepauk

Ruturaj Gaikwad, who led Chennai Super Kings, will be under immense pressure to rise to the occasion after registering a hat-trick of losses. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals will be looking to bounce back in Match 18 of IPL 2026 against wounded CSK at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, at 7:30 PM IST on Saturday (11 April). The only positive for the Super Kings coming into this game is that, as per media reports, Dewald Brevis is fit to play and expected to make his return as soon as in the game against Delhi. In another development, Dhoni underwent a fitness test a few days ago, and it is learnt that he will undergo another one in a day or two. If things go to plan, the 44-year-old would be available for selection in CSK’s game against KKR at Chepauk on 14 April. Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, are yet to overcome the stench of a 1-run defeat to the Gujarat Titans on Wednesday, 8 April. The only issue that DC need to address is consistency from the middle order that collapsed against the Titans. Apart from David Miller, no one could even score in double digits. Let’s take a look at both teams, their strengths, and potential issues. CSK’s openers’ run slump, can Brevis rule out playing XI instability? The seasoned opening duo of Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad will be under immense pressure to perform as Chennai Super Kings continue their search for their first win of the season against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. So far in the opening three games, CSK openers have only scored 63 runs in total, with Sanju Samson yet to cross the 10-run mark as an opener for the Yellow Army. The absence of Dewald Brevis has also impacted the balance of the side. The explosive South African batter is expected to make a comeback from injury against the Delhi Capitals. Kartik Sharma too needs to step up in the middle, while Prashant Veer has done well in the lower order. The only batter who has shown consistency is Sarfaraz Khan, who has a point to prove this season. Apart from Khaleel Ahmed, all the CSK bowlers leaked 12 runs or more per over while facing RCB, where they conceded 250 runs. Delhi eye regaining winning momentum, Sameer Rizvi to face his ex-team CSK will be taking on Delhi Capitals, who know the importance of momentum in a highly competitive tournament like the IPL and would be determined to compound CSK’s woes with an all-round performance. Pacer Mukesh Kumar leaked 55 runs in his four overs on Wednesday, forcing him to review his plans in the powerplay. While Lungi Ngidi has done his job, Nitish Rana and Tristan Stubbs are yet to save the day for the Delhi Capitals. Match Information: Match details: Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals, Match 18, IPL 2026 Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Time: 7:30 PM IST, toss time is 7:00 PM IST How to watch: Star Sports network, JioHotstar How to follow: Catch all live updates on the Bhaskar English app CSK vs DC Head-To-Head record In the overall head-to-head record, Chennai Super Kings dominate Delhi Capitals, winning 19 of 31 matches. However, Delhi have still managed to win 12 games and with current form, they even have higher chances of winning at Chepauk. Chennai might gain some confidence with Brevis’s return, but it’ll be too soon to jump to any conclusion. MA Chidambaram Stadium Pitch Report In the previous match played at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium between CSK vs PBKS, a total of 419 runs were scored. The hosts had posted a huge total of 209 in their 20 overs, but the Punjab Kings chased it down in 18.4 overs. So the bowlers are expected to be clobbered once again on the flat track of Chepauk. Chennai weather report It is expected to be a warm evening in Chennai with temperatures between 35°C and 28°C. There is almost no chance of rain or cloud cover. However, the wind gusts at the speed of 35 km/h are expected to provide relief to the supporters in the stands.