Will CSK qualify for IPL 2026 playoffs after win versus Mumbai Indians? Cheteshwar Pujara analyses chances for Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have solidified their chances to qualify for the playoffs of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 after defeating Mumbai Indians (MI) in Match 44 at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday, May 02. Former CSK batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes that the franchise now has a real chance to force their way into the top four of the tournament.

Pujara says that the stars might have finally aligned for the Chennai-based franchise after they started poorly in IPL 2026. The former India cricketer highlighted that Ruturaj Gaikwad is back in form, while overseas all-rounder Jamie Overton is also playing a handy part in the team's success. All in all, Pujara is quite confident of CSK qualifying for the playoffs after their return to form.

“Chennai will back themselves to make the top four. At the start of the season, they looked like a different side. Their batters were struggling for form, but now, Ruturaj has found his touch again. Sanju Samson is also contributing with runs," Pujara said via JioStar after the match on Saturday.

"Jamie Overton’s bowling in the middle and death overs has given them a big boost. CSK will fancy their chances against LSG, who are at the bottom of the table and out of form. The next game against Delhi is the key. If CSK win that, they will have a real shot at qualifying for the playoffs,” the cricketer-turned-commentator added.

For the unversed, CSK are currently sixth on the points table, after securing eight points, courtesy of their fourth win of the season. With five more matches to go in their IPL 2026 campaign, Ruturaj & Co. have a real chance of making it through. If they win at least four matches in the remainder of the tournament, they will be able to give themselves a golden opportunity of making a serious comeback, like the five-time champions are best known for doing.