Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have once again proved why they remain one of the biggest brands in IPL, after emerging as the most-watched franchise of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.
Despite intense competition from arch-rivals Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI), CSK dominated the off-field battle as well, registering the highest average viewership per match this season.
The five-time IPL champions, led by the immense popularity of legendary MS Dhoni, have continued to enjoy massive support across the globe.
CSK tops IPL 2026 viewership charts ahead of RCB and MI
According to the latest viewership numbers, Chennai Super Kings are averaging a staggering 308 million viewers per match during IPL 2026, making them the most-watched franchise of the season.
CSK’s enormous fan following has been driven not only by their successful IPL legacy but also by the continued presence of MS Dhoni, who remains one of the biggest sporting icons in world cricket.
Right behind them are the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who are averaging 303 million viewers per game this season. RCB’s popularity continues to soar due to the franchise’s passionate fan base and the star power of Virat Kohli.
The Bengaluru-based franchise entered IPL 2026 as defending champions, further increasing fan interest surrounding their campaign.
Meanwhile, the Mumbai Indians secured the third spot with an average viewership of 293 million per match. Despite enduring a difficult campaign on the field, MI continues to command massive support thanks to superstars like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Suryakumar Yadav.
SRH and KKR complete IPL 2026’s top five most-watched teams
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) secured the fourth spot on the list with 290 million average viewers per match.
The Pat Cummins-led side has steadily grown its fan base over the years, with players like Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Travis Head adding major star value to the franchise.
Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the third most successful team in IPL, rounded off the top five with an impressive average of 280 million viewers per game.
The Kolkata-based franchise, co-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, has consistently remained among the most-followed IPL teams over the years.
Top 5 most-watched teams in IPL 2026
Chennai Super Kings – 308 million viewers per match
Royal Challengers Bengaluru – 303 million viewers per match
Mumbai Indians – 293 million viewers per match
Sunrisers Hyderabad – 290 million viewers per match
Kolkata Knight Riders – 280 million viewers per match