In a revelation that has shocked everyone Indian Premier League (IPL) community, experienced Indian batsman Hanuma Vihari The curtain has been lifted on one of the most important trades in league history. Before the IPL 2026 season, sanju samsonis a high-profile move by Rajasthan Royals (RR) till Chennai Super Kings (CSK) was finalized in lieu of the legendary Ravindra Jadeja And England all-rounder Sam Curran.
Hanuma Vihari reveals the real reason behind Sanju Samson’s trade to CSK
Vihari suggests that Chennai’s decision to buy Samson was a calculated move to secure a huge, loyal fanbase rather than a desperate search for a new opening batsman. Speaking through a video on his Instagram account, Vihari explained that in the high-stakes world of the IPL, a player’s marketability often rivals their on-field skills.
“Samson enjoys huge fan support in the South. When you think of IPL, it is not just about cricket and if you believe otherwise, you are wrong. This is because IPL owners think beyond cricket and focus on how much commercial value a player can bring to the team. Samson is a cricketer with a huge fan following. Wherever the games are played, Kerala fans come and cheer for him. CSK should not get any salute for the next season. Don’t need a batsman. They already have the openers.” Vihari said.
Also read: After Sanju Samson trade, Rajasthan Royals considering ownership change ahead of IPL 2026
IPL 2026: Vihari considers Samson trade unnecessary from a purely tactical point of view
Vihari’s analysis focuses on the current depth of the CSK roster, which includes already established stars and emerging talent at the top of the order. By trading for Samson, CSK have created an extremely competitive environment for starting positions, which Vihari considers unnecessary from a purely tactical perspective. He believes that the team already had enough firepower to carry on with its innings without making such a huge sacrifice.
“Ruturaj Gaikwad is also a player who plays as an opening batsman. So, actually, they did not need Sanju in the team. After returning from injury, he also played at number three for Rajasthan Royals last season. Players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel are potent opening options for Chennai, while the arrival of Samson makes the competition at the top even more intense. In fact, Samson has been given the number three spot in the team. Can be given a role.” Vihari concluded.
As the franchise looks towards its long-term future, Vihari believes the deal was designed to establish Samson as the new face of the team. with ms dhoniWith the final farewell looming, the franchise needed a hero figure who would command the same level of regional devotion. By bringing in a Kerala icon with pan-India appeal, CSK are not just buying a wicketkeeper-batsman; They are investing in a brand that ensures stadiums are packed and engagement on social media is at an all-time high.
Also read: Rajasthan Royals’ most expensive players in every IPL auction: From Sanju Samson to Ben Stokes
