Sanju Samson Embraces Dual Role as CSK's Keeper-Opener for IPL 2026 Campaign
Sanju Samson is poised for a significant challenge as he prepares to don dual responsibilities for the Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming IPL 2026 season. With legendary captain MS Dhoni ruled out for two weeks due to a calf muscle strain, Samson will take over the wicketkeeping gloves and open the batting for the five-time champions.
Learning from Dhoni and Embracing CSK Culture
Samson has been observed spending considerable time with Dhoni, engaging in detailed interactions, seeking valuable tips, and sharing net sessions. This mentorship period has prepared him for his new journey in the iconic yellow jersey. The Chennai Super Kings will commence their IPL 2026 campaign against the Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Monday.
"Feels really good, feels really excited to be a part of a champion franchise. Lots to learn, lots to observe, and really excited, really very calm. I think this is something which I relate to very much. I am a very chilled-out person, very calm, but when it comes to business, I think we give our everything," Samson expressed in a video released by the franchise.
Calm Dressing Room Environment and Planned Transition
Despite being traded from Rajasthan Royals to CSK last year, Samson highlighted the dressing room atmosphere that aligns perfectly with his temperament. "I can see in the dressing room people are calm, people are chilled out. They don't roam around as 5-time IPL champions. I think they don't roam around as the greatest cricketers the world has ever seen. But that's what I really like to be a part of, and I am very happy that I am part of that kind of culture," he noted.
Samson also indicated that the franchise is undergoing a well-planned transition phase, suggesting a strategic rebuild is underway. "I think I would like to call it 'very well planned', actually. So yeah, very excited to play RR, looking forward to it," he added, emphasizing the meticulous preparation behind CSK's current squad composition.
Emotional Return Against Rajasthan Royals
Facing his former team, Rajasthan Royals, in the opening match adds an emotional layer to the contest. Samson anticipates strong support from the Guwahati crowd, which has historically favored CSK. "I think last time when we played RR vs CSK in Guwahati, it didn't feel like an RR home game. It was yellow all over the stadium. So that's what we can expect again this time. And also, I think the passion of the crowds – I think they bring up a lot of energy," he remarked.
He further praised the enthusiastic spectators in Guwahati, expressing hope for a competitive pitch that delivers an entertaining match. "Very passionate crowds in Guwahati are what I expect. And I think hopefully the wicket also plays well and we get a good game of cricket," Samson stated.
Youthful Energy and Fearless Mindset in CSK Squad
Samson spoke enthusiastically about the youthful energy permeating the CSK squad and the fearless approach the younger players bring to the game. "CSK is definitely in a building phase, and that's what our recruitment has also been. So the number, definitely, the age is definitely much less. But in the amount of sixes these guys are hitting, they don't actually look like youngsters anymore," he observed.
He emphasized the importance of this mindset in the high-pressure T20 format. "I think that's what the character of the mindset is; it's required in this format and in this hype. Just be free and go out there and express yourself with a lot of fearlessness. I think that's what youngsters bring in, and we all are very excited to play with them," Samson explained.
IPL as a Festival for Cricket Fans
Looking ahead to the tournament, Samson described the IPL as a celebratory festival for fans worldwide. "I think we all are ready for another festival season. So I don't have to say that we are going to do this or we are going to do that. I think definitely two months of IPL cricket for Chennai fans all over the world. It's a great festival," he said.
He concluded with a promise to the supporters: "So let us all come together and enjoy a great festival season of cricket. And we will try our best to put some smiles on your faces by winning a few games."
Chennai Super Kings have established themselves as one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, securing titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023. In contrast, the Rajasthan Royals claimed the inaugural championship in 2008 but have not captured the trophy since, setting the stage for a compelling opening clash in IPL 2026.
