“I know how the CSK environment is” - Ex-Indian cricketer opens up on Sanju Samson’s trade to CSK

Former Indian No.3 batter and commentator Cheteshwar Pujara has shared his opinion on Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja’s trade between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, scheduled to take place next month in the UAE.

Advertisment

Speaking exclusively on JioHotstar, Pujara asserted that it would be an emotional moment for Samson to move out from the Royals after representing them for 12 years. However, he reckoned that CSK would create a pretty welcoming environment for him to settle down very quickly. 

"This will be an emotional moment for Sanju because he has been playing for the Rajasthan Royals for so many years. But where he is going, that is CSK, they are a very welcoming unit, and they create a very welcoming environment. So, Sanju Samson will get settled at CSK very soon. That's what I feel because I have been part of CSK," Pujara said on JioHotstar.

"I know how the CSK environment is and how the players feel. That's why I feel he will fit in the CSK unit very soon. And with the crowd and environment in Chennai, Sanju Samson's game will suit the wicket a lot," he added.

Furthermore, the former cricketer also stated that he was in shock to see Jadeja being traded from CSK to RR. However, he added that Jadeja has been in his prime form at the moment in Tests and T20 formats, and it would add more value to the RR franchise. 

"There was a lot of discussion around Sanju Samson and Ravindra Jadeja, but no one knew if Ravindra Jadeja would really leave CSK. But when this confirmed news came today, it was very shocking. This is going to be a new challenge for Jadeja for sure. But if you talk about Jadeja as a player, he is in his prime form now. Yes, he is getting older. But the form he is going through as a batsman and as a bowler, especially in the Test format and T20 format, I think he will add more value to the Rajasthan team there," Pujara said.

"And personally, a lot of times you want to prove yourself as a player, and this is the right time for him to make a difference. He will get the full quota of 4 overs in Rajasthan. He will bowl higher in bowling. So as a player, he also has to prove. And the impact he will bring to the team will be very big," he concluded.

Advertisment

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky247 India and download the Sky247 app to start betting today!