Chennai Super Kings (CSK) handed IPL debuts to four players in their 2026 season opener against Rajasthan Royals, which included Sanju Samson, Kartik Sharma, Matt Henry, and Matt Short in the playing XI.

It turned out to be a tough initiation for most of them. Samson managed just 6 off 7 balls before falling to Nandre Burger, while Matt Short also departed early, caught at midwicket off Sandeep Sharma.

Kartik Sharma, batting at number six, showed brief promise but couldn’t convert it into a substantial score. The young wicketkeeper-batter was dismissed LBW by fellow debutant Brijesh Sharma after scoring 18 off 15 deliveries.

All about Kartik Sharma
Hailing from Bharatpur in Rajasthan, Kartik’s cricket journey began at a very young age under the encouragement of his father, Manoj Kumar. Coach Lokendra Singh Chahar, known for mentoring Deepak and Rahul Chahar, once recalled Kartik’s early ambition—to become a cricketer famous for hitting sixes.

That aggressive mindset has defined his rise. Kartik emerged as one of the most sought-after uncapped players at the IPL auction, with CSK signing him for a hefty Rs 14.2 crore. His reputation is built on power-hitting—he was among the leading six-hitters in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy and topped the six charts in the 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy. After being part of CSK’s extended squad in IPL 2025, he secured a place in the main team this season.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals made the most of favourable conditions after opting to bowl first at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Captain Riyan Parag cited surface moisture following recent rain as a key factor behind the decision.

The Royals’ bowling attack dominated proceedings from the outset. Nandre Burger and Jofra Archer rattled the CSK top order, while Ravindra Jadeja’s impactful spell in the middle overs ensured there was no recovery.

CSK were left struggling early after losing key wickets in quick succession, slipping to 19/3 inside the first four overs. The pressure continued through the innings, with wickets falling at regular intervals.

Despite a fighting 43 off 36 balls from Jamie Overton, the Chennai Super Kings were bowled out for just 127 in 19.4 overs. Rajasthan Royals’ disciplined bowling unit, backed by sharp fielding, justified their decision at the toss with a clinical all-round performance.