Samson Silences Doubts with Stellar Turnaround for CSK After Slow Start

After a shaky beginning to his Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign, Sanju Samson has staged a remarkable comeback for Chennai Super Kings, delivering match-winning performances and reaffirming his status as one of India’s premier T20 batters.

Samson, who was traded to CSK in a high-profile deal involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, endured a difficult start to the season with three single-digit scores—all in losing causes. The early struggles sparked criticism and raised questions about CSK’s decision.

However, the wicketkeeper-batter has responded emphatically. In his last seven innings, Samson has registered three scores of fifty or more, including a match-winning unbeaten 87 off 52 balls against Delhi Capitals on a challenging pitch earlier this week.

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch praised Samson’s resilience and ability to handle pressure following the slow start.

“Two games in T20 cricket is nothing, but the scrutiny can be intense, especially when you’re a marquee signing for a team like CSK,” Finch said on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show. “There’s always pressure to prove your worth immediately, particularly when you’ve been traded for someone like Jadeja. The fact that he’s now batting on a completely different level is great to see.”

Samson’s resurgence comes on the back of his outstanding run in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, where he was named Player of the Tournament as India successfully defended their title. He has carried that form into the IPL, amassing 402 runs in 10 innings at an impressive average of 57.42 and a strike rate of 167.50.

Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta highlighted the consistency Samson has shown this season—an area that had previously eluded him during his time with Rajasthan Royals.

“In the past, you’d see flashes of brilliance from Samson, but not sustained performances,” Dasgupta said. “This season is different. Once he gets going, he’s making it count—converting starts into big scores and often remaining unbeaten. That 87 not out looked like it was played on a different surface altogether.”

Despite their recent win, CSK currently sit sixth on the points table, though they remain firmly in contention for the playoffs, trailing the teams ranked second to fifth by just two points.

With Samson in prime form, CSK will be optimistic about their chances as the tournament heads into its decisive phase.