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"Got Good Brand Image": Srikkanth Picks Sanju Samson As Dhoni's Replacement In CSK

Soumyajit Dutta

Sanju Samson and MS Dhoni [Source: @MSDian067/X.com]Sanju Samson and MS Dhoni [Source: @MSDian067/X.com]

Former India chief selector Kris Srikkanth has backed Sanju Samson as the ideal long-term replacement for MS Dhoni at Chennai Super Kings, citing the Rajasthan Royals skipper's popularity in Chennai. The endorsement comes amid speculation that Samson has requested a release from RR following reported differences with coach Rahul Dravid.

Srikkanth's comments add fuel to growing rumours about a potential high-profile transfer ahead of the IPL 2025 season. The Kerala wicketkeeper-batter, who has spent over a decade with RR, might be eyeing a fresh challenge as CSK prepares for life beyond MS Dhoni.

Srikkanth Endorses Sanju's Impact In Chennai

The 1983 World Cup winner made his case emphatically while speaking on his YouTube channel Cheeky Cheeka. Srikkanth positioned Samson as the perfect heir to Dhoni's legacy.

"To tell you the truth, Sanju is a brilliant player and he is very popular in Chennai. He has got a good brand image in Chennai... I will be the first one to pick him for Chennai if he is willing to leave. He is the right replacement for MS Dhoni. Dhoni can maximum play this season, maybe not the year after and then you can have a smooth transition," Srikkanth said.

While advocating for Samson, Srikkanth acknowledged Ruturaj Gaikwad's claims to leadership. "If Ruturaj Gaikwad has been given the captaincy, he should be continued with," Srikkanth concluded.

Samson's RR Legacy Remains Trophyless

The comments come after a disappointing IPL 2025 season where CSK finished bottom under Dhoni's temporary captaincy. The 44-year-old legend managed 196 runs at a strike rate of 135+ while battling fitness concerns.

Nevertheless, Sanju Samson's RR legacy includes 4,027 runs across 12 seasons, though the franchise hasn't lifted the trophy since their 2008 debut triumph. His potential move could spark the biggest transfer saga of the upcoming season, with CSK's succession planning taking center stage.