Dewald Brevis To Replace Whom? CSK Strongest XI vs DC- IPL 2026, Match 18

Chennai Super Kings [Source: AP Photos]

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to face Delhi Capitals (DC) in Match 18 of IPL 2026. The match will take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday, April 11.

As both teams come into this game with very different momentum, it will be interesting to see which side comes out on top.

To begin with, CSK, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, are currently struggling at the bottom of the points table. They have lost three matches in a row against Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Because of these consecutive defeats, the team looks out of form and lacking confidence.

CSK vs DC Preview

Moreover, the absence of MS Dhoni is clearly being felt, both in terms of leadership and experience. Although fans are hoping for his return, it is still very unlikely that he will play in this match.

On the other hand, Delhi Capitals are in a much better position. They are currently placed fourth on the table, having won two out of their three matches, with a healthy net run rate of 0.811. However, despite their good start, they are coming into this match after a heartbreaking loss.

In their previous game against Gujarat Titans, DC lost by just one run in a very close contest. Even though David Miller tried his best to take them to victory, he could not score the required runs in the final balls. Therefore, DC will be eager to bounce back and get back to winning ways.

Meanwhile, as both teams prepare for this exciting clash, CSK might consider making a few changes to CSK playing XI vs DC in order to improve their performance.

CSK Playing XI vs DC – Match 18

Openers and Top Order (Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ayush Mhatre)

Firstly, CSK’s opening pair has not performed well so far, which has been a major concern. For instance, Sanju Samson, who performed brilliantly in the T20 World Cup, has not been able to carry that form into the IPL. He has scored only 22 runs in three innings, which is far below expectations.

Similarly, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is also under pressure, as he has managed only 41 runs in three innings with a low strike rate. However, despite these struggles, the team will be hoping that both players regain their form soon.

Additionally, young batter Ayush Mhatre has shown some promise. Although he failed in the last match against RCB, he had earlier scored an impressive 73 runs against PBKS. Therefore, the young Mumbai batter will be looking to perform well again and support the top order.

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Middle Order and All-Rounders (Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Sarfaraz Khan, Jamie Overton)

Moving on to the middle order, there is a strong possibility that Dewald Brevis will return to the CSK playing XI. According to team management, his availability depends on his fitness, but if he plays, he is expected to bat at number four. Notably, he performed exceptionally well in the previous season for CSK.

Furthermore, Shivam Dube is likely to play a flexible role in the team. Depending on the match situation, he could bat at number five or six.

In addition, Sarfaraz Khan has been one of the few consistent performers for CSK this season. He has scored 99 runs in three innings at an excellent strike rate, which makes him a key player in the middle order. Therefore, the team will once again rely on him to deliver a strong performance.

Lastly, Jamie Overton has contributed well with both bat and ball. He is expected to bat at number seven and provide balance to the team. His recent performances show that he can be very useful in important situations.

Bowlers (Prashant Veer, Anshul Kamboj, Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmad)

Finally, looking at the bowling unit, CSK have decent depth. Prashant Veer, who recently got an opportunity, impressed with a quick 43 runs in the last match. Because of this, he is likely to continue in the team and add depth to the batting as well.

Moreover, the pace attack will be led by Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj. Both bowlers are expected to retain their places in the CSK playing XI. In addition, Matt Henry might be used as an impact player depending on the match situation, which could further strengthen the bowling lineup.

Meanwhile, Noor Ahmad will lead the spin attack. Although he has not taken any wickets yet this season, the team is likely to continue backing him, hoping he will find his rhythm soon.

CSK Playing XI vs DC-

1. Sanju Samson
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad
3. Ayush Mhatre
4. Dewald Brevis
5. Shivam Dube
6. Sarfaraz Khan
7. Jamie Overton
8. Prashant Veer
9. Anshul Kamboj
10. Khaleel Ahmed
11. Noor Ahmad