CSK's Playing 12: Every Combination Decoded | Squad Analysis | IPL 2026 Chennai Super Kings head into IPL 2025 with a squad that balances batting depth, a diverse spin attack, and a pace unit still finding its shape in the post-Pathirana era. The playing twelve they field on any given night can vary significantly based on conditions, opposition, and whether they are batting first or chasing. This blog breaks down all three core combinations — what they are, when to use them, and where the genuine concerns lie. COMBINATION 1 — BATTING FIRST When CSK win the toss and choose to bat, this is the XI that maximises their top-order firepower while keeping the Impact Player slot open as a tactical lever. Playing XI: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c) Ayush Mhatre / Urvil Patel Sanju Samson Shivam Dube Dewald Brevis Prashant Veer MS Dhoni † Kamboj / Khaleel Ahmed Sam Ellis Noor Ahmad Matt Henry Impact Player Decision: This is where Combination 1 becomes smart rather than just straigh...