India, March 30 -- Chennai Super Kings on Monday offered a first glimpse into their transition phase, showing how the line-up shapes up in the absence of the legendary MS Dhoni. The former captain is sidelined with a calf injury and is expected to return towards the end of next month.

As CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad walked out for the toss in their IPL 2026 opener against Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, all eyes were on the team sheet. For months, Chennai have been preparing for life beyond Dhoni, especially after a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, where they finished bottom of the table for the first time in history.

RR vs CSK LIVE Score, IPL 2026

When the XI was announced, Kartik Sharma was included as Dhoni's r...