Ahmedabad: With only one IPL 2026 playoffs spot still up for grabs, the spotlight shifts to the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday as Gujarat Titans take on Chennai Super Kings in a high-stakes clash carrying contrasting objectives for both sides. While Gujarat have already secured a place in the playoffs, Chennai are in a must-win situation and also need other results to go their way to stay alive in the qualification race.

Placed second on the points table with 16 points from 13 matches, Gujarat Titans are now aiming for a top-two finish that would secure them a place in Qualifier 1 and offer an extra chance to reach the final. The Titans are currently involved in a tight race with table-toppers Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who have 18 points, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, who are also on 16 points. A convincing win over Chennai could significantly strengthen Gujarat’s position and improve their net run rate, which may become crucial in deciding the top-two rankings.

The race could become even tighter if Sunrisers Hyderabad defeat Bengaluru in their final league game, potentially making net run rate the deciding factor. In that scenario, Gujarat currently hold a slight advantage owing to a superior NRR.

For Chennai Super Kings, the equation is far more complicated. The five-time IPL champions have been pushed to the brink and are no longer in control of their own fate. Apart from winning against Gujarat, they will also require favourable outcomes in other matches to keep their playoff hopes alive. Even if qualification becomes difficult, CSK will be eager to finish strongly and salvage pride in what may be their final outing of the season.

The challenge becomes tougher for Chennai due to the absence of veteran MS Dhoni from the setup. According to reports, Dhoni has returned to Ranchi because of a thumb injury and will not be available even in the dugout. Batting coach Mike Hussey reportedly confirmed the injury setback.

Historically, encounters between the two sides have been closely contested. Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings have faced each other nine times in IPL history, with Gujarat winning five matches and Chennai emerging victorious on four occasions.

As the league stage nears its conclusion, Thursday’s encounter promises high pressure and major implications, with Gujarat eyeing a strategic top-two finish and Chennai fighting for survival in the tournament. DeshGujarat