Sanju Samson has finally put to rest the rumour mill surrounding his long-term place at Chennai Super Kings, saying he remains completely focused on playing under captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. His comments come amid growing speculation that the franchise may be grooming him for a bigger leadership role in the years ahead, but the Kerala batter stressed that his priority is to contribute to the team in the role assigned to him.
Samson’s move to CSK ahead of IPL 2026—after a high-profile switch from Rajasthan Royals—was widely seen as part of Chennai’s broader planning, especially with MS Dhoni approaching the twilight of his storied IPL career. With Dhoni forced to miss time due to injury before the season began, Samson stepped straight into the wicketkeeping responsibilities and has taken to the challenge with impressive consistency. In 11 innings so far, he has amassed 430 runs at an average of 53.75 and a strike rate of 169.29, including two centuries and one fifty—numbers that have only intensified calls to consider him for future captaincy.
Speaking on the Super Kings podcast, Samson rejected the idea that his arrival came with leadership expectations. “I am here to play for my team,” he said. “I’ll play for my captain Ruturaj. I’ll play for my coach Stephen Fleming.” The wicketkeeper-batter also pointed to the close relationship he shares with Gaikwad, describing how their bond shows up not just in conversation but in how they operate during matches. “Rutu and my friendship can also be seen while we are fielding. We both are working through this together,” Samson added.
Samson also opened up about his admiration for Dhoni, insisting that whenever he gets the chance, he makes time to meet the Chennai icon. “I love to be with Mahi bhai wherever possible. Whenever I come here, I try to find time to go and meet him in his room,” he said.
His remarks landed as CSK continued their push in the league phase with a third straight victory. Chennai beat Lucknow Super Giants by five wickets at Chepauk on Sunday, extending their momentum and keeping their playoff chances in a healthy position.
The chase was powered by Urvil Patel, who delivered a memorable burst of batting. Patel struck a 13-ball fifty—matching the quickest half-century in IPL history—before going on to finish with 65 off only 23 deliveries. CSK ultimately reached the target of 208 with four balls remaining, and the finish was shaped by late acceleration from impact player Prashant Veer.
With the win, the five-time champions moved up to fifth place in the standings, strengthening their playoff outlook while Samson’s message of commitment to the current captain and leadership group continues to resonate across the CSK camp.
