The IPL 2026 has seen a strong mid-season turn around by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) that have seen them lift themselves off the bottom of the table after a poor start, but their path to the playoffs remains uncertain despite a renewed momentum.
Having finished the wooden spoon in the first game of the second season in IPL 2025, CSK once again had to start the new season on a down note as they lost their first three games. The initial disappointments such as several injuries (most notably to MS Dhoni), and anxiety about their bowling attack, cast grave doubts on the balance of the team and whether they could succeed without their long-time leader.
But, with a spectacular turnaround, Chennai managed to achieve a turnaround within the next couple of weeks. They had won two consecutive games at home and some of the returning players contributed and the batting performances were improved, after which they won two consecutive games at home. Even their victory against a team, the Delhi Capitals, on the field of play made their resurgence even stronger. CSK have won five of their last seven matches, helping them to move up the points table, out of 10th place into 6th place.
The revival has led to controversy regarding their eligibility to playoffs. CSK are now at 10 points (10 matches), just two behind second-placed Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and three behind table leaders Punjab Kings, neither of which have a game in hand. They are also in close proximity behind Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans, but they have a better net run rate than Gujarat.
Under Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership, CSK have yet to reach the playoffs, having finished fifth in 2024 and 10th in 2025. Although their new image has helped fans get excited once again, the competition has still been very tough and even the qualification in the playoffs is not yet assured.