3 Reasons why Sanju Samson should join CSK for IPL 2026

Sanju Samson is likely to be traded by Rajasthan Royals after the keeper-batter publicly announced that he wanted to part ways with the franchise, which he has been captaining since 2021. And the leading franchise in conversation with RR for the trade is Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

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Cricbuzz reports have stated that CSK and RR are very close to finalizing the trade in a straight swap, and possibly some money is involved as well. Not only CSK, but also Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals have also shown interest in trading in Sanju Samson, given his recent T20I exploits.

Today, we’ll see the 3 reasons why Sanju Samson should join CSK for IPL 2026.

Here are the 3 reasons why Sanju Samson should join CSK for IPL 2026:

1. Long-term replacement for MS Dhoni

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), while enjoying the popularity and fan craze MS Dhoni brings with him, know that he might very well play his last IPL in 2026. He will be 44 years old in IPL 2026, and CSK will need to prepare for life after him.

Sanju Samson is the perfect replacement for MS Dhoni, as he is a brilliant wicket-keeper, and as an opener, he will provide CSK with an empty slot in the middle order. Samson is a perfect fit because of his leadership qualities and batting prowess in addition to his superb glove work.

2. Possible captaincy option

While Ruturaj Gaikwad is the captain of the Chennai Super Kings, the franchise hasn’t fared well under his leadership. Under Ruturaj, CSK has won only eight games in the 19 matches he has captained. Sanju Samson has proven his leadership with the Rajasthan Royals, who played in the IPL 2022 finals and have qualified for the playoffs as well.

In 68 matches in the role, Samson has guided RR to 34 wins, making him the most successful captain in franchise history, going past legendary Shane Warne’s record of 31 wins. If needed, Samson can take over as CSK captain, freeing Ruturaj to excel as a batter in the IPL.

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3. Great player of spin

While Sanju Samson will look to bat in the opening position at the Rajasthan Royals, he showed his adaptability as well. Samson batted at no. 3 and 5 as well in RR, when the team needed him to do so. CSK has a solid opening combination with Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ayush Mhatre.

But their middle-order frailty was the reason CSK finished 10th in the IPL 2025. Sanju Samson can hold that fragile middle order together with Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube, and CSK might find success and recover their mojo in the upcoming season.

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