CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has backed Indian batsman Sanju Samson, who moved to Chennai Super Kings after a massive trade ahead of the IPL 2026 season. However, after his poor performance, the coach has backed him to perform well in the upcoming games.
Chennai Super Kings made one of the biggest trade signings in the form of Indian wicketkeeper batsman Sanju Samson ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction. He was brought in as a replacement for CSK’s experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
Despite playing a final as captain of a franchise, Samson is yet to win his first title in the IPL. The Indian legend has not performed well for CSK so far and has not won any games for them yet. CSK has started this season with two consecutive defeats.
CSK head coach supports Sanju Samson after continuous poor performance
sanju samson Made his debut for CSK in the first game of the season against his former franchise Rajasthan Royals at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. Indian batsmen were performing tremendously for India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Despite his successful stint in international cricket, Samson has suffered a string of low scores in the first two IPL matches for Chennai Super Kings this season. However, the CSK head coach has shown full confidence in the abilities of the Indian cricketers.
“He won’t score every time. This is T20 cricket, but he is in good form. He has been training well and when he gets going, is often a match-winner, so two innings doesn’t define an area of concern,” he said.
Samson-Gaikwad opening pair not working for CSK in IPL 2026
Chennai Super Kings had lined up a successful opening pair in Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson. However, both the right-handed batsmen have failed to perform well in the last two matches.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s form is also a matter of great concern for him. csk teamBecause he is the captain of the team. Gaikwad is not only losing his form but is also batting at a very poor strike rate. He has been seriously out of touch as, despite his efforts, he has missed shots.
CSK may consider promoting Ayush Mhatre to the top order to open with Sanju Samson. This may help young Mhatre to reduce the pressure of scoring early runs on Samson, who can flex his muscles this time.
Is Ravindra Jadeja-Sanju Samson deal a big mistake for CSK?
Chennai Super Kings took a big gamble when they parted ways with their most experienced spinner Ravindra Jadeja in exchange for Sanju Samson. A true veteran for CSK, Jadeja had played 11 seasons for the franchise and won three titles with them in 2018, 2021 and 2023.
However, this deal has not been a huge success for them, especially after CSK’s bowling was compromised after the departure of Ravindra Jadeja. Chennai’s spin bowling deck has been weak and is relatively inexperienced.
Whereas, Rahul Chahar and Noor Ahmed were badly defeated by Punjab Kings. Prashant VeerThis young player has not bowled for CSK yet.
Also Read: “Ayush batted brilliantly”: Ruturaj Gaikwad praises Ayush Mhatre after painful defeat against PBKS in IPL 2026