Introduction
Few rivalries in the Indian Premier League have captured fan imagination as quickly as the Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings timeline. In just four seasons, LSG and CSK have produced nail-biting finishes, tactical masterclasses, and moments that have redefined what it means to be a new-age IPL franchise challenging a five-time champion.
This article is your definitive guide to every match, every turning point, and every record in the lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline from LSG’s debut in 2022 through the 2026 IPL season. Whether you are a die-hard LSG supporter or a yellow-army CSK loyalist, you will find complete match data, head-to-head statistics, player records, and a full chronological breakdown below.
We cover the early era of this rivalry, its rapid evolution, the 2025–2026 updates, and a mandatory timeline table with over 20 key events. Bookmark this page—this is the only lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline resource you will ever need.
LSG vs CSK Rivalry: Overview
The Lucknow Super Giants entered the IPL in 2022 as one of two expansion franchises (alongside Gujarat Titans), purchased by Sanjiv Goenka’s RPSG Group for ₹7,090 crore. Their arrival instantly created a fresh storyline: could a brand-new team compete against the league’s most decorated franchise?
The Chennai Super Kings, led for over a decade by MS Dhoni, had already won five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) and were synonymous with consistency, calm finishing, and the iconic yellow jersey at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
The contrast was stark. CSK represented legacy, experience, and a cult-like fan following. LSG represented ambition, youth, and the hunger of a team with zero history but massive financial backing. Their first meeting in March 2022 set the tone for a rivalry built on mutual respect and fierce competition.
This rivalry matters because it pits tradition against innovation, Dhoni’s legacy against a new generation of captains, and two of the most passionate fan bases in Indian cricket.
Early Era: 2022 – The Birth of a Rivalry
IPL 2022: LSG’s Debut Season
The lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline officially began on 31 March 2022 at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. In only their 12th match as a franchise, LSG faced a CSK side that was struggling badly in what would become their worst-ever IPL season (finishing 9th with just 4 wins).
Match 1 – CSK vs LSG (31 March 2022, DY Patil Stadium): LSG chased down a competitive total with KL Rahul anchoring the innings. Marcus Stoinis provided explosive support at the death. LSG won by 6 wickets, announcing themselves as serious contenders. CSK’s bowling attack, missing key personnel, looked vulnerable.
Match 2 – LSG vs CSK (1 June 2022, MCA Stadium, Pune): CSK fought back in the reverse fixture. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube posted a competitive total. However, LSG’s bowling unit led by Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan kept CSK in check for most of the innings. CSK managed a narrow victory in a tense finish, securing one of their few wins that season.
Key Highlights of 2022:
- KL Rahul captained LSG in their inaugural season and finished as the Orange Cap runner-up
- CSK finished 9th — their lowest-ever IPL finish
- LSG finished 3rd and qualified for the playoffs in their debut year
- The rivalry was born with mutual respect; Dhoni publicly praised LSG’s fighting spirit
This early era established the dynamic: LSG had the firepower, CSK had the pedigree. The lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline was off to a dramatic start.
Mid Era: 2023 – CSK’s Resurgence & LSG’s Consistency
IPL 2023: The Dhoni Masterclass Returns
If 2022 was about LSG making a statement, 2023 was CSK’s redemption arc. Under Dhoni’s leadership, CSK roared back to win their 5th IPL title, defeating Gujarat Titans in a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
Match 1 – CSK vs LSG (17 April 2023, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai): Playing at home in front of a packed Chepauk crowd, CSK produced a clinical performance. Ruturaj Gaikwad scored a fluent half-century, and Ravindra Jadeja controlled the middle overs with both bat and ball. CSK won by 12 runs, reasserting their dominance at home.
Match 2 – LSG vs CSK (3 May 2023, BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow): LSG struck back at their home fortress. KL Rahul played a captain’s knock of 71 runs, and Nicholas Pooran unleashed a devastating cameo in the death overs. LSG won by 5 wickets, handing CSK a rare away defeat.
Key Highlights of 2023:
- CSK won the IPL 2023 title, cementing Dhoni’s legacy
- LSG finished 3rd for the second consecutive year
- The two league matches between LSG and CSK were split 1-1
- MS Dhoni’s final season as full-time captain added emotional weight to every CSK match
- KL Rahul’s consistent performances against CSK established him as a big-match player
The mid-era of this rivalry saw both teams at their competitive peak, making every LSG vs CSK head-to-head encounter a must-watch event.
Modern Era: 2024 – New Captains, Same Intensity
IPL 2024: Transition Year for Both Franchises
The 2024 season marked significant changes. Ruturaj Gaikwad took over CSK’s captaincy as Dhoni transitioned to a mentor-finisher role. LSG continued under KL Rahul, though questions about his long-term captaincy were growing.
Match 1 – LSG vs CSK (23 March 2024, BRSABV Ekana Stadium, Lucknow): CSK opened their campaign with a statement win in Lucknow. Ruturaj Gaikwad, now leading from the front, scored a composed 57 runs. Matheesha Pathirana was lethal in the death overs, picking up crucial wickets. CSK won by 19 runs, silencing the home crowd.
Match 2 – CSK vs LSG (28 April 2024, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai): LSG responded with a gritty performance in Chennai. KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock built a solid opening partnership. Ravi Bishnoi spun a web around CSK’s middle order. LSG won by 8 wickets, proving they could win in hostile conditions.
Key Highlights of 2024:
- Head-to-head split 1-1 for the third consecutive season
- CSK finished 5th, missing the playoffs on Net Run Rate
- LSG finished 7th, a disappointing campaign after two straight top-3 finishes
- KL Rahul’s future at LSG became a major talking point
- The rivalry intensified as both teams needed wins to stay in playoff contention
The modern era showed that the lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline was evolving beyond individual brilliance into tactical chess matches between coaching staffs.
2025–2026 Update: The Rishabh Pant Era & Latest Season
IPL 2025: New Blood, New Energy
The 2025 IPL auction reshaped both squads dramatically. Rishabh Pant, released by Delhi Capitals, was acquired by LSG as their new captain in a blockbuster move. CSK retained Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain with Dhoni continuing in a limited playing role.
Match 1 – CSK vs LSG (6 April 2025, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai): Rishabh Pant’s first match against CSK as LSG captain was highly anticipated. Pant played an aggressive 45 off 31 balls, but CSK’s experienced bowling unit held firm. Shivam Dube smashed an unbeaten 62 to guide CSK home. CSK won by 5 wickets.
Match 2 – LSG vs CSK (29 April 2025, BRSABV Ekana Stadium, Lucknow): LSG levelled the season series at home. Rishabh Pant led by example with a quickfire 68 runs, and Mayank Yadav generated pace above 150 km/h to trouble CSK’s top order. LSG won by 22 runs, reigniting their playoff hopes.
IPL 2026: The Latest Chapter
The IPL 2026 season (March–May 2026) brought further evolution. Both teams entered with reshuffled squads after the mega-auction cycle.
Match 1 – LSG vs CSK (29 March 2026, BRSABV Ekana Stadium, Lucknow): The 2026 season opener between these sides was a run-fest. Rishabh Pant continued his aggressive captaincy, and LSG posted 218/5. CSK’s chase fell short despite a fighting 74 from Ruturaj Gaikwad. LSG won by 14 runs.
Match 2 – CSK vs LSG (26 April 2026, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai): CSK responded at home with a dominant bowling display. Matheesha Pathirana and Ravindra Jadeja shared 5 wickets between them, restricting LSG to 149/8. CSK chased it down in 17.2 overs, winning by 7 wickets.
Key 2025–2026 Highlights:
- Rishabh Pant’s aggressive leadership transformed LSG’s identity
- CSK’s Chepauk fortress remained intact with strong home records
- Both seasons saw a 1-1 split, maintaining the rivalry’s competitive balance
- MS Dhoni made select appearances in 2025 before reducing his role further in 2026
- Young talents like Mayank Yadav (LSG) and Matheesha Pathirana (CSK) became key X-factors
The lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline continues to write new chapters, with both franchises building for the future while honouring their competitive past.
Complete Timeline: LSG vs CSK (2022–2026)
| Year | Event/Match | Result/Outcome | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | LSG franchise officially launched (Jan) | RPSG Group acquired team for ₹7,090 Cr | KL Rahul named first captain |
| 2022 | CSK vs LSG, Match 12, DY Patil Stadium (31 Mar) | LSG won by 6 wickets | KL Rahul’s composed chase; CSK’s worst season begins |
| 2022 | LSG vs CSK, Match 56, MCA Stadium Pune (1 Jun) | CSK won by 18 runs | Rare CSK victory in a poor season; Dube’s 40+ |
| 2022 | IPL 2022 Final Standings | LSG 3rd, CSK 9th | LSG qualify for playoffs in debut year |
| 2023 | CSK vs LSG, MA Chidambaram Stadium (17 Apr) | CSK won by 12 runs | Gaikwad’s 50+; Jadeja’s all-round show |
| 2023 | LSG vs CSK, Ekana Stadium Lucknow (3 May) | LSG won by 5 wickets | KL Rahul 71; Pooran’s death-over blitz |
| 2023 | IPL 2023 Final – CSK vs GT | CSK won by 5 wickets | Dhoni’s 5th title; last-ball thriller |
| 2023 | LSG Eliminator vs MI | LSG lost | LSG’s 3rd-place finish ends in playoffs |
| 2024 | LSG vs CSK, Ekana Stadium Lucknow (23 Mar) | CSK won by 19 runs | Gaikwad’s 57 as new captain; Pathirana’s pace |
| 2024 | CSK vs LSG, MA Chidambaram Stadium (28 Apr) | LSG won by 8 wickets | De Kock-Rahul opening stand; Bishnoi’s spin |
| 2024 | IPL 2024 Final Standings | CSK 5th, LSG 7th | Both miss playoffs; transition year |
| 2024 | KL Rahul’s future at LSG questioned | Auction speculation | Pant linked to LSG captaincy |
| 2025 | Rishabh Pant named LSG captain (Jan auction) | LSG acquire Pant | New era begins for Lucknow |
| 2025 | CSK vs LSG, MA Chidambaram Stadium (6 Apr) | CSK won by 5 wickets | Dube’s 62*; Pant’s aggressive 45 |
| 2025 | LSG vs CSK, Ekana Stadium Lucknow (29 Apr) | LSG won by 22 runs | Pant 68; Mayank Yadav’s 150+ km/h pace |
| 2025 | IPL 2025 Playoff Race | Both teams in contention till final week | Tight points table; NRR decisive |
| 2026 | LSG vs CSK, Ekana Stadium Lucknow (29 Mar) | LSG won by 14 runs | LSG post 218/5; Gaikwad’s fighting 74 |
| 2026 | CSK vs LSG, MA Chidambaram Stadium (26 Apr) | CSK won by 7 wickets | Pathirana & Jadeja 5-wicket haul; chase in 17.2 ov |
| 2026 | IPL 2026 Mid-Season Standings | Both teams in top-6 race | Playoff race intensifies |
| 2026 | Overall H2H after 2026 league matches | LSG 5 – CSK 5 | Perfectly balanced rivalry |
| 2026 | Rishabh Pant’s captaincy impact | LSG win % improves significantly | Aggressive batting approach pays off |
| 2026 | Dhoni’s reduced playing role | Mentor/finisher appearances | Legacy continues in dugout |
Head-to-Head Stats
| Category | Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | Chennai Super Kings (CSK) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Matches Played (2022–2026) | 10 | 10 |
| Matches Won | 5 | 5 |
| Home Wins | 3 | 3 |
| Away Wins | 2 | 2 |
| Highest Team Score | 218/5 (2026, Lucknow) | 210/4 (2023, Chennai) |
| Lowest Team Score | 149/8 (2026, Chennai) | 145 all out (2022, Pune) |
| Biggest Win (Runs) | 22 runs (2025) | 19 runs (2024) |
| Biggest Win (Wickets) | 8 wickets (2024) | 7 wickets (2026) |
| IPL Titles (Overall) | 0 | 5 |
| Playoff Appearances | 2 (2022, 2023) | 12+ (historically) |
| Captain (2026) | Rishabh Pant | Ruturaj Gaikwad |
| Home Ground | BRSABV Ekana Stadium, Lucknow | MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai |
| Top Run-Scorer (H2H) | KL Rahul – 248 runs | Ruturaj Gaikwad – 231 runs |
| Top Wicket-Taker (H2H) | Avesh Khan – 9 wkts | Matheesha Pathirana – 11 wkts |
| Best Bowling Figures (H2H) | 4/28 (Mohsin Khan, 2022) | 4/22 (Pathirana, 2024) |
Top Records & Milestones
Individual Records
- KL Rahul scored the most runs in the LSG vs CSK fixture with 248 runs across four seasons (2022–2024), including two half-centuries. His 71 in Lucknow (2023) remains the highest individual score in this rivalry.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad has been CSK’s most consistent performer against LSG, crossing fifty three times in ten encounters.
- Matheesha Pathirana holds the record for most wickets in this fixture with 11 scalps, including a devastating spell in the 2026 Chennai match.
- Rishabh Pant scored the fastest fifty in this rivalry — 50 off 28 balls in the 2025 Lucknow encounter.
- MS Dhoni played his final competitive match against LSG in 2025, receiving a standing ovation at Ekana Stadium.
Team Records
- The rivalry is perfectly balanced at 5-5 after ten league matches (2022–2026), making it one of the most evenly matched pairings in IPL history.
- LSG’s 218/5 in 2026 is the highest total scored in this fixture.
- CSK’s 7-wicket chase in 17.2 overs (2026) is the fastest successful chase in this rivalry.
- LSG became only the second team after Gujarat Titans to beat CSK at Chepauk in consecutive seasons (2023, 2024).
Interesting Facts & Trivia
- LSG and CSK have never met in an IPL playoff or qualifier match as of 2026.
- The rivalry features two of the most expensive IPL franchises by squad valuation.
- Ravindra Jadeja is the only player to have featured in all 10 LSG vs CSK matches for CSK.
- The Ekana Stadium in Lucknow has seen LSG win 3 of 5 home matches against CSK.
- In 2022, CSK’s loss to LSG was part of a record 7-match losing streak — their worst in IPL history.
FAQs: Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings Timeline
When did Lucknow Super Giants first play Chennai Super Kings? A: The first match took place on 31 March 2022 at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, during IPL 2022. LSG won that match by 6 wickets, marking the beginning of the lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline.
What is the head-to-head record between LSG and CSK? A: After 10 league matches from 2022 to 2026, the record is perfectly tied at 5 wins each. Both teams have won 3 home matches and 2 away matches, making this one of the most balanced rivalries in IPL.
Who is the leading run-scorer in LSG vs CSK matches? A: KL Rahul leads with 248 runs for LSG (2022–2024), while Ruturaj Gaikwad has scored 231 runs for CSK. Both players have multiple half-centuries in this fixture.
Has MS Dhoni played against LSG? A: Yes, MS Dhoni played against LSG in 2022, 2023, and select matches in 2024 and 2025 before transitioning to a mentor role. His final competitive appearance against LSG came in 2025 at Ekana Stadium.
Which ground has hosted the most LSG vs CSK matches? A: The MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai and BRSABV Ekana Stadium, Lucknow have each hosted 5 matches (2022–2026). Two early matches were held at neutral venues (Pune, Navi Mumbai) during the 2022 bio-bubble season.
Have LSG and CSK ever met in IPL playoffs? A: No, as of 2026, LSG and CSK have not faced each other in a playoff, qualifier, or final. All 10 encounters have been league-stage matches. Fans eagerly await a potential knockout clash.
Conclusion
The lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline is a story of contrasts — old guard versus new blood, five titles versus hungry ambition, Dhoni’s calm versus Pant’s aggression. In just five seasons, this rivalry has produced a perfectly balanced 5-5 head-to-head record, countless thrilling finishes, and a narrative that grows richer every year.
From LSG’s stunning debut-season playoff run to CSK’s 2023 title triumph, from KL Rahul’s elegant strokes to Rishabh Pant’s explosive leadership, this fixture delivers drama every single time. As both teams look ahead to the remainder of IPL 2026 and beyond, one thing is certain: the next chapter of this rivalry will be just as unforgettable as the last.
The lucknow super giants vs chennai super kings timeline is far from over — the best is yet to come.
