The two league games between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans have quietly traded places on the IPL 2026 roster. The 26 April fixture, initially pencilled in for Ahmedabad at 3.30 pm, will now be played in Chennai at the same afternoon slot. Conversely, the return meeting on 21 May shifts to Ahmedabad and slides into the 7.30 pm evening window.
An IPL note to the franchises explained the switch was required because of the “municipal corporation elections in Ahmedabad and other parts of Gujarat” on 26 April. With local authorities focused on polling, staging a 40-over match – and managing the expected full house at Motera – was judged a complication too far.
From a cricketing angle, the change leaves little between the sides. CSK and GT have met eight times, four wins each. Super Kings did claim the most recent contest, a 63-run victory in Ahmedabad last season, yet both camps agree the rivalry is still young.
League form is mixed. Gujarat sit fifth after splitting their opening four outings; Chennai, ninth, have managed a single victory from three. CSK batter Ruturaj Gaikwad shrugged off that start, saying last week, “It’s early doors, the table moves fast once you string a couple together.” Titans coach Ashish Nehra offered a similar view. “We’re playing decent cricket,” he noted. “Finish better in the last five overs, the results will follow.”
Both clubs next face Kolkata Knight Riders – CSK host KKR on Tuesday, GT meet them in Ahmedabad on 17 April – before attention turns to the rescheduled showdowns. If nothing else, the logistical shuffle means each side finishes its regular season at home, a small perk amid the election bustle.
Fans holding original tickets will hear shortly from the franchises regarding refunds or transfers. The league insists the dates, kick-off times, and broadcasting slots remain intact.
