CSK Lands Sanju Samson as Pundits Tip Dhoni for Impact Role in 2026

CSK keeps Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain, with Dhoni’s on-field role and Samson’s glove duties still unannounced.

Overview

Chennai Super Kings completed a confirmed trade for Sanju Samson, sending Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals in a move the club said was made with mutual understanding.
The franchise reaffirmed that Ruturaj Gaikwad will continue as captain following Samson’s arrival.
Ravichandran Ashwin predicted MS Dhoni could feature as an impact batter next season with Samson taking the wicketkeeping, citing CSK’s retention list and a potential Rs 4 crore cap implication had Dhoni been released.
A Times of India report, attributed to an unnamed source, suggested Dhoni may hand the gloves to Samson for select games in IPL 2026, a scenario not confirmed by CSK.
Former India batter Mohammad Kaif said he believes Dhoni likely spoke with Samson about the move and future plans, while broader talk frames Samson as a long-term successor without any formal role changes announced.