‘I’ll play for my captain Ruturaj’: Sanju Samson breaks silence on CSK leadership buzz

NEW DELHI: Sanju Samson has finally addressed the growing chatter around his long-term role at Chennai Super Kings, making it clear that he is fully committed to playing under skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad despite speculation linking him to a future captaincy role at the franchise.

One of the biggest trades ahead of IPL 2026 saw Samson leave Rajasthan Royals for CSK, a move many viewed as part of the franchise’s succession planning with MS Dhoni nearing the end of his glittering IPL career.

With Dhoni sidelined due to injury before the season, Samson immediately stepped into wicketkeeping duties and has enjoyed a stellar campaign. The stylish opener has scored 430 runs in 11 innings at an average of 53.75 and a strike rate of 169.29, including two centuries and a fifty.

‘I’ll play for my captain Ruturaj’
Speaking on the Super Kings podcast, Samson dismissed suggestions that he arrived at CSK with expectations of leadership.

“I am here to play for my team. I’ll play for my captain Ruturaj. I’ll play for my coach Stephen Fleming,” Samson said.

The Kerala batter also revealed the strong bond he shares with Gaikwad both on and off the field.

“Rutu and my friendship can also be seen while we are fielding. We both are working through this together,” he added.

‘I love to be with Mahi bhai’
Samson also opened up on his admiration for Dhoni and said he makes it a point to spend time with the CSK legend whenever possible.

“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,” Samson revealed.

His comments coincided with CSK registering their third consecutive win, defeating Lucknow Super Giants by five wickets at Chepauk on Sunday.

Urvil Patel’s record blitz powers CSK
Youngster Urvil Patel stole the show with a breathtaking 13-ball fifty — equalling the fastest half-century in IPL history — before smashing 65 off just 23 balls.

CSK eventually chased down 208 with four balls to spare, thanks to late blows from impact player Prashant Veer. The win lifted the five-time champions to fifth place and kept their playoff hopes firmly alive.