ChennaiThe Chennai Super Kings made a daring trade ahead of 2026 when they acquired Sanju Samson in return for Sam Curran and their former captain. With Samson probably approaching his final season and emerging as a potential keeper and captain, the deal marks a turning point for CSK. Samson's acquisition is unmistakable evidence that the team management isn't totally persuaded, despite the franchise's faith in Ruturaj Gaikwad as leader.
However, CSK now has a number of options at the top of the order thanks to his arrival. Young player Ayush Mhatre showed his abilities in the 2025 IPL, and he will undoubtedly be considered once more. In seven games, the 18-year-old scored 240 runs at a scorching strike rate of 188.97. He recently scored a half-century in both the U19 World Cup semifinal and final, which increases the likelihood that he will stay in the starting lineup.
The choice of the opening combination remains. Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad are both at ease as openers or at number three, but one will have to adapt. Samson, who just finished a successful T20 World Cup campaign with India, is anticipated to open because of his capacity to maximize the powerplay. Captain Gaikwad will therefore probably start at number three.
With Shivam Dube batting at number five and Dewald Brevis batting at number four, CSK's middle order also appears to be set. Brevis, a South Africa international, had an incredible IPL season in 2025; with him, it's all about maintaining the momentum. In contrast, Dube has proven to be a formidable opponent in the game's shortest format. He has recently finished games for India on a regular basis, which will boost his confidence going into the new season.
CSK may have trouble completing games.The issue with CSK now begins after number five. Dhoni is unlikely to bat at number six. Urvil Patel and Sarfaraz Khan are intriguing choices, but they both like to bat higher. Prashant Veer, their new prospect, could then appear at number six. The 18-year-old, who was purchased at auction for Rs 14.20 crore, is anticipated to relish the role of finisher. But the child will be under tremendous pressure.
Dhoni could be ranked seventh. Even Jamie Overton can bat ahead of the veteran in most games because the five-time champion captain now likes to bat lower in the order. and Noor Ahmad can be assigned to positions nine and ten, respectively.
Who could be an impact player and who is CSK's death bowler?As CSK attempts to address their death-bowling problems, Spencer Johnson, their recent acquisition, is anticipated to be the team's first-choice overseas seamer. Nathan Ellis, who is unable to compete in the tournament, was recently replaced by the Australia international. The team may have faith in Anshul Kamboj or Rahul Chahar as the impact player.
Sanju Samson, Ayush Mhatre, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, and Spencer Johnson make up the CSK starting lineup.
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