Samson to Keep as Dhoni Misses Opener, CSK Look to Future
Chennai Super Kings are set to begin their Indian Premier League 2026 campaign with a significant shift, as Sanju Samson prepares to take on wicketkeeping duties in the absence of MS Dhoni. Samson, who was brought in through a trade deal from Rajasthan Royals, is seen not just as a short-term solution but as a long-term investment for the franchise. With Dhoni unavailable for the opening fixture, CSK have confirmed that Samson will step in behind the stumps. “See, obviously, Sanju will be keeping because his MS Dhoni is not going to play. Sanju’s form is great and he’s been knocking well in the nets also. So we’re hoping that he’ll give the impact that CSK is looking for during the current season. Of course, we have Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is also capable of taking the team to higher levels, and his captaincy is one which definitely will lift the team,” said CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan. Since Samson’s arrival, questions have been raised about how CSK plan to manage the wicketkeeping role once Dhoni returns to fitness. For now, the team management appears focused on backing Samson without placing additional pressure on him. “As far as Sanju is concerned, we don’t want to put any pressure on him because we know his capabilities. I have not spent much time talking to Sanju, as I met him only a couple of days back, and during practice, I would never go and disturb him. I’m very confident that Sanju, with his abilities and his form, will be a great bet for us,” Viswanathan added. The upcoming clash against Rajasthan Royals not only marks the start of CSK’s season but also offers a glimpse into the team’s transition phase. With Samson stepping in and Dhoni nearing the final stages of his career, the franchise appears to be gradually shaping its future while remaining competitive in the present.
