Overview:
Samson concluded his 11-year tenure with Rajasthan Royals in a major trade that saw Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran move the other way, underscoring how highly Chennai Super Kings value him.
Ravichandran Ashwin has raised questions about Sanju Samson’s role at Chennai Super Kings after sharing images of him practising high catches in the outfield, notably without any wicketkeeping gloves.
On X, Ashwin posted pictures showing Samson training under the guidance of fielding coach James Foster. The drills appeared to focus on taking high balls in the deep rather than routine warm-ups, drawing significant attention from fans and cricket experts alike.
Ashwin captioned the post with, “Indications or just gradually easing in?” prompting speculation about whether Samson could be deployed purely as a fielder this season.
As we take the Charminar Express and head to Chennai, ( from my previous tweet) Sanju doing some fielding practice with James Foster.
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) March 21, 2026
Not just warm up catches, but high balls in the deep.
Indications or just gradually easing in?#ipl2026 #CSK pic.twitter.com/J1YLa8D2JW
The debate comes after Samson’s trade from Rajasthan Royals to CSK, with many expecting him to eventually assume wicketkeeping duties from MS Dhoni.
However, Dhoni, now in the later stages of his IPL career, may still feature behind the stumps. Ashwin’s post suggests that the veteran could continue keeping wickets for part of the season, giving Chennai fans a chance to see him in action in his familiar role one last time.
Sanju Samson joined CSK after an outstanding T20 World Cup 2026, earning the Player of the Tournament award. He delivered in India’s final three must-win games, scoring successive fifties to help the team lift the trophy and solidify his reputation as a top white-ball batter.
A strong and agile fielder, Samson has consistently pulled off impressive catches in the deep. Using him as a specialist outfielder would allow CSK to maximise his batting impact and fielding skills without the added pressure of wicketkeeping.
Samson concluded his 11-year tenure with Rajasthan Royals in a major trade that saw Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran move the other way, underscoring how highly Chennai Super Kings value him.
CSK will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign on March 30 against Samson’s former side, the Rajasthan Royals, at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati—an encounter that could provide clarity on the role Ashwin recently hinted at.