After early struggles, Sanju Samson emerges as CSK’s most consistent performer in IPL 2026

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After a quiet start to IPL 2026, Sanju Samson has transformed his form to become the backbone of Chennai Super Kings’ batting line-up. The wicketkeeper-batter, who was traded in a high-profile move involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, initially struggled with three single-digit scores—each coming in CSK defeats.

However, Samson has since silenced critics with a remarkable turnaround. In his last seven innings, he has registered three scores of 50 or more, including a match-winning unbeaten 87 off 52 balls against Delhi Capitals on a challenging pitch. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a high strike rate has been crucial for CSK’s campaign.

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch praised Samson’s resilience and ability to handle pressure after a slow start. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show, Finch highlighted how difficult it is for any player to maintain consistency in T20 cricket, especially after joining a new franchise under intense scrutiny.

Finch pointed out that early criticism was inevitable given the magnitude of Samson’s signing and the expectations attached to replacing a player like Jadeja. He added that such pressure can often lead players to overthink their performances, especially when trying to prove their worth immediately. Despite that, Samson has managed to elevate his game and is now “batting on a different level.”

Samson’s current numbers underline his impact. He has amassed 402 runs in 10 innings at an impressive average of 57.42 and a strike rate of 167.50, making him one of the standout performers this season.

Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta also lauded Samson’s consistency, noting that this is the version of the batter fans have long awaited. In previous seasons with Rajasthan Royals, Samson often showed flashes of brilliance but struggled to sustain form across the tournament. This season, however, he has combined flair with consistency, frequently converting starts into match-defining innings.

Dasgupta further emphasized Samson’s ability to finish games unbeaten, pointing out that his recent knocks have come with a sense of control and authority, as if he were “playing on a different surface.”

Despite their recent win, CSK remain sixth on the points table, but the gap between them and the top four is minimal. With Samson in top form, the team will be optimistic about pushing for a playoff spot in the coming matches.