East Chennai Super Kings (CSK) And Rajasthan Royals(RR)Spincutter Ravichandran Ashwin A detailed strategic outlook will be provided on the potential business that will see sanju samson Move over RR to CSK. speaking on his show ‘A matter of luxury,’ Ashwin addressed the hot-button issue of Samson’s captaincy prospects and highlighted how the wicketkeeper-batsman will need to completely reshape CSK’s top order.
IPL 2026: Ravichandran Ashwin on Sanju Samson’s chances of leading CSK
Ashwin was clear that Samson is unlikely to be handed the captaincy in his first season at the five-time champions, despite his leadership experience with the Royals. He believes that the franchise will remain with the incumbent, Ruturaj GaikwadFor now, reserving Samson as a long-term succession plan.
“I don’t think Sanju will get the captaincy at CSK because it will be his first year and I am not sure they will give him the captaincy immediately. But if the trade happens he will definitely be an option to lead in the future.” Ashwin said.
This suggests that CSK see Samson as the heir apparent for the role, possibly post-ms dhoniAfter the last exit, they may prefer a smooth transition that allows the new player to settle into a first-team environment, rather than immediately burdening him with leadership.
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Ashwin said that Samson’s arrival will be a big strategic advantage for CSK, as it will fill a key gap in their batting line-up. The trade will allow CSK to field an entirely new and exciting Indian top three, moving Gaikwad out of his traditional starting spot to accommodate Samson. Ashwin outlined the proposed new structure:
“Bridging that gap at the top of the order will also benefit CSK. Ayush and Sanju can open, Ruturaj can come in at number three, which is what he has been wanting to do. It gives them balance.” Ashwin concluded.
This change will provide the team with a dynamic opening pair Ayush Mhatre And Samson, followed by Gaikwad at No. 3, is the position Gaikwad has reportedly expressed his desire to bat at as he batted mostly at the same position in the 2025 edition.
