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Sanju Samson snubs CSK captaincy rumours; hails Ruturaj Gaikwad as "good friend"

Anurag Dasgupta

Samson desires to be CSK leader [Source: AFP Photo] Samson desires to be CSK leader [Source: AFP Photo]

Sanju Samson was at the centre of attraction for the last few months as the former RR captain was involved in perhaps the most high-profile trade deal in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). His wishlist was to join the Chennai Super Kings, and the dream came true as Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran were traded to RR in return.

With Samson going to CSK, there were speculations that the Kerala batter might be appointed their captain for the upcoming season; however, CSK showed trust in Ruturaj Gaikwad, as the batter will continue to lead the franchise in 2026.

Samson's special message for CSK captain Gaikwad

In a recent interview, Samson broke the silence on his ambitions to lead CSK, as he lent support to Gaikwad and expressed his desire to play under him in 2026.

"Rutu is a Good Friend of mine. He is the Captain and I want to play under his captaincy. I want to be with him as a leader," Samson said in a special interview with CSK.

Samson likely to replace Gaikwad at number 3 in CSK side

For the Rajasthan Royals, Sanju Samson used to open the batting and was the backbone of their batting lineup. However, last season, midway through the campaign, he was demoted to number 3 due to the rise of Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

Just like Samson, Gaikwad, too, played at number 3 in IPL 2025, but with Samson in the squad, the management might push him to play at the top, which has been his desired position.

If the management pushes Gaikwad to open alongside Ayush Mhatre, then Sanju Samson will have to play at number 3, which might not be his best position in T20s. However, the team could also play a punt by opening with both Gaikwad and Samson in the upcoming IPL season.