Ex-Cricketer Reveals Chennai Super Kings’ Unique Reward Tradition After Crushing Defeat

Despite a heavy loss to Rajasthan Royals, Abhinav Mukund highlighted Chennai Super Kings’ long-standing tradition of doubling players’ prize money.

Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings endured a disappointing start to their IPL 2026 campaign, suffering a heavy defeat against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. Put in to bat first, CSK’s top order crumbled under pressure, leaving them struggling at 94/9 in just 15.3 overs.

A late fightback from Jamie Overton, who scored 43, along with Anshul Kamboj, helped CSK post a modest total of 127. The duo stitched together a record 33-run partnership for the 10th wicket for the franchise, providing some respectability to an otherwise underwhelming innings.

Sooryavanshi, Jaiswal Power RR to Comfortable Chase

In reply, Rajasthan Royals made light work of the target, chasing it down in just 12.1 overs. The highlight of the chase was a breathtaking knock from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who smashed 52 off only 17 balls, dismantling the CSK bowling attack.

He was well supported by Yashasvi Jaiswal, who remained unbeaten on 38, as the pair added a rapid 75-run opening stand to seal a dominant victory.

Earlier, RR bowlers, including Jofra Archer and Ravindra Jadeja, kept CSK batters in check, ensuring there was no recovery after the early collapse.

ALSO READ | WATCH | Yuzvendra Chahal and Jos Buttler Engages In Viral Banter Ahead of IPL 2026 Clash

Abhinav Mukund Praises CSK’s Player-First Culture

Despite the loss, former India cricketer Abhinav Mukund shed light on the franchise’s unique culture and strong player relations. Reflecting on his time with CSK, Mukund revealed a long-standing tradition that sets the team apart.

“I think the credit should also go to the management. That time, they clearly told us that whatever prize money BCCI is offering you, whether we are losing or winning, we will double it. And this is a tradition of Chennai from day one. Ask any clear Chennai player, they will say ‘this is a tradition that they have followed’, so at that point it felt like a huge thing,” said Mukund.

The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side had entered the season with renewed optimism after finishing at the bottom last year, but their opening defeat highlights the challenges that lie ahead as they look to bounce back in IPL 2026.