Rain-hit Chennai prep: CSK and LSG gear up for crucial playoffs push

Rainwater puddles and sudden summer showers have been a familiar sight in Chennai this May, and the timing has been particularly significant for the two sides preparing for this contest at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. A spell of weather disruption meant Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants both stayed indoors and cancelled their practice session on the eve of the match. For both franchises, the immediate relief is clear, but the bigger hope is that the rain clouds clear overnight so the game can start on proper footing.

Key takeaways

  • Both Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants avoided practice on the day before the fixture due to rain disruptions.
  • CSK are targeting a vital points haul after winning three of their last four matches, following an early slump that cost them their first three games.
  • LSG enter the match with momentum from recent results, including a game decided by a Super Over and another where they defended a massive 228.
  • The match is scheduled for May 10 at 3:30 PM at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
  • There is lingering uncertainty around MS Dhoni’s availability for CSK, while LSG will monitor Josh Inglis and Mohsin Khan after they missed the previous game with minor injuries.

CSK vs LSG: stakes, form and the impact of conditions

With two points desperately needed, the upcoming clash is being viewed by both teams as a strong chance to swing the points table in their favour. CSK, in particular, have been building momentum despite their shaky start. After losing their opening three matches, they have since turned things around, winning three of their last four to climb back into the playoff conversation.

Recent league results have also contributed to the sense that the race is still open, with no single side dominating the standings. Added to that, CSK’s immediate schedule includes back-to-back encounters against the teams placed at the bottom, giving them a realistic opportunity to collect additional points over the next few days.

In individual form, Sanju Samson has looked in fine touch in CSK’s most recent win in Delhi, while Kartik Sharma has begun to settle into the level. If Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube are able to find rhythm at this stage of the campaign, CSK’s prospects look even better—especially because their bowling unit appears to have found stability.

LSG’s confidence after statement results

LSG, despite enduring a difficult season overall, have shown encouraging flashes in their most recent run of three games. One of those matches went down to a Super Over, while another saw them fall short even after putting up 228. Their latest outing, however, ended as a statement win, and it carried plenty of belief.

Not many expected Lucknow to knock off the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, but they did so with conviction. Mitchell Marsh produced a standout century, and Nicholas Pooran looks sharp again after reclaiming the No. 3 batting position. That victory would have been a significant lift with four matches still remaining, particularly when CSK’s home record in recent times hasn’t been their strongest asset.

Match details and what to expect

When: Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants, May 10 at 3:30 PM.

Where: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

What to expect: The weather remains a factor and could affect how the pitch behaves in the early part of the game. The forecast for Sunday is currently looking clearer, which would allow for a full contest.

Head to head: CSK 2 – 3 LSG.

Team Watch: injuries and probable XIs

Chennai Super Kings

Injuries/Unavailabilities: Uncertainty continues around MS Dhoni’s participation. With the practice session cancelled, the suspense is likely to carry over until closer to the toss.

Probable XII: Sanju Samson (w), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Akeal Hosein, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh.

Lucknow Super Giants

Injuries/Unavailabilities: After the last game, Rishabh Pant said Josh Inglis and Mohsin Khan were sidelined due to small injuries. The key question is whether both recover in time for this match.

Probable XII: Mitchell Marsh, Arshin Kulkarni, Nicholas Pooran, Aiden Markram/Josh Inglis, Rishabh Pant (w/c), Akshat Raghuwanshi, Himmat Singh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav/Mohsin Khan.

Did you know & what the staff said

  • Akeal Hosein has a dot-ball percentage of 64.8 in the Powerplay.
  • Mitchell Marsh is the leading overseas run-getter in IPL since the start of 2025.
  • LSG have used six uncapped batters in their campaign so far.

What they said: “Last year he showed glimpses of what he could achieve. So, actually this year during the camps that we had, we discussed his strengths. Under pressure, sometimes a bowler goes blank. But under pressure, the one who is confident of executing his strengths is going to be most successful in execution.” — LSG bowling coach.

Bharat Arun on Prince Yadav