IPL 2026: Check Out Barsapara Pitch Report as Rajasthan Royals Face Chennai Super Kings

Guwahati: The third match of IPL 2026 is set to take place today at the Barsapara Stadium. In this contest, the Chennai Super Kings will face off against the Rajasthan Royals. Both teams will take the field in the absence of their marquee stars, Sam Curran and MS Dhoni.

What about Player Trade Between the Two Teams?

The swap involving Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja—which took place between the Rajasthan Royals and the Chennai Super Kings this season—has been the center of much discussion. Sanju will now be seen sporting the Chennai jersey as he plays against his former team, Rajasthan. The challenge for Rajasthan is that Sam Curran is currently injured; however, the form of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag serves as a major plus point for the team. Meanwhile, Chennai will keenly feel the absence of MS Dhoni, Dewald Brevis, and Nathan Ellis—voids that Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson will have to step up to fill.

What is Barsapara Pitch Report?

The pitch at Guwahati is generally considered a paradise for stroke-makers. Initially, the fast bowlers—specifically Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger—may find some assistance, but as the match progresses, batting is expected to become easier. Dew will play a significant role in the second innings, making it difficult for spinners to grip the ball. Consequently, the team winning the toss is likely to elect to bowl first.

What is Head-to-Head and Record?

Rajasthan has not had a particularly dominant run at the Barsapara Stadium. Out of the 6 matches played here, they have won 2 and lost 3. On the other hand, Chennai has played only one match at this venue, suffering a 6-run defeat at the hands of Rajasthan. In the 2025 fixture, powered by a knock of 81 runs from Nitish Rana, Rajasthan posted a total of 182 runs; in reply, despite a brilliant innings from Ruturaj, Chennai fell short by 6 runs.