India, May 21 -- Chennai Super Kings have endured a roller-coaster IPL 2026 campaign, showing moments of brilliance after a shaky start to the season. The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side currently sit seventh on the table and are still alive in the race for a qualification spot, although they are now largely dependent on other results going their way as they prepare to face a high-flying Gujarat Titans side today, May 21, in their final group-stage clash.

What appears set to become a third consecutive season without a playoff qualification for the five-time champions has left many wondering whether it is part of a transition phase or the outcome of certain debatable calls made during recent IPL auctions regarding squad selection.

Former Indian...