CSK Confirms Sanju Samson Acquisition is Key to Post-Dhoni Succession Plan
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has confirmed that the franchise's strategic moves at the IPL 2026 auction, including the trade for Sanju Samson, are part of a long-term succession plan for life after MS Dhoni. The five-time champions secured Samson, an international-quality wicketkeeper-batter, in a trade that saw Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran move to Rajasthan Royals.
Fleming emphasized that while the move addresses immediate needs in the top order, the primary motivation is to refresh the squad and build a team capable of competing for the next six years, not just the immediate future. Samson, 31, offers stability and leadership potential, making him a key asset as the legendary Dhoni, currently 44, nears the end of his playing career.
This strategic shift was further highlighted by CSK's heavy investment in uncapped Indian youth at the auction, signaling a clear change in philosophy towards long-term squad building.
“Sanju is an international-quality player, and he fills that role very well. So it’s succession planning, but also about refreshing the group and looking at what Chennai will look like in six years, not just two.”
Stephen Fleming, Head coach
- Player
- Sanju Samson
- Specialization
- Batter
- Team
- RR
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- Analyze Performance
- Team
- Team Performance
Related Statistics
IPL 2025 Top Order Run Leaders | Position Analysis
Best run at Top Order position in IPL 2025
| Rank | Player | Team | runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Chennai Super Kings | 3781 runs | |
#2 | Mumbai Indians | 3312 runs | |
#3 | Mumbai Indians | 3304 runs | |
| #4 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 3191 runs | |
| #5 | Punjab Kings | 2984 runs |
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“Sanju is an international-quality player, and he fills that role very well. So it’s succession planning, but also about refreshing the group and looking at what Chennai will look like in six years, not just two.”
Stephen Fleming, Head coach
- Player
- Sanju Samson
- Specialization
- Batter
- Team
- RR
- Analyze
- Analyze Performance
- Team
- Team Performance