MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson [Source: AFP, Chennai Super Kings]Sanju Samson has kick-started his preparations in CSK colours for the IPL 2026. The Kerala batter enjoyed stellar success in the recently held T20 World Cup 2026, playing a pivotal role in India's glorious title win. Samson, who led Rajasthan Royals in the previous season, joined the Super Kings camp when the five-time champions traded Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja to secure his services. Considering his red-hot recent form and experience in the IPL, the destructive batter is expected to emerge as CSK's go-to batter in the tournament. With Sanju Samson gearing up for the IPL 2026, the legendary MS Dhoni sacrificed his position for the Kerala batter, giving him a valuable opportunity to fine-tune his skills. From MS Dhoni to Sanju Samson: CSK brace for historic transitionTalismanic Indian cricketer MS Dhoni has been the most influential personality in the Chennai Super Kings' camp. He was their most expensive buy in the inaugural IPL auction and eventually gained a cult fan following in Chennai. The legendary keeper-batter went on to lead the Super Kings from 2008 to 2023, while also serving as the stand-in skipper after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of the tournament due to injury. However, with MS Dhoni struggling with a knee injury and his fitness steadily deteriorating, the Super Kings are actively searching for his long-term successor. Also read: CSK's Best Playing XI For IPL 2026- Sanju Samson To Open, MS Dhoni Batting Position LockedTherefore, as the Chennai Super Kings eye redemption in the IPL 2026, Dhoni made a praiseworthy sacrifice to ensure Sanju Samson gets the much-needed game time days before their tournament opener against the Rajasthan Royals. MS Dhoni's big sacrifice grabs limelightLike their rival teams, the Chennai Super Kings have also started preparations for the IPL 2026 through intra-squad matches. As the CSK players were engaged in a riveting contest, Dhoni allowed Samson to take his position. In a video doing the rounds on social media, Samson can be seen donning the wicketkeeper's gloves in the CSK jersey. It's worth noting that MS Dhoni has been the wicketkeeper of Chennai Super Kings since joining the franchise. So, with the IPL 2026 approaching, he was expected to warm himself up by participating in the practice games. However, the legendary keeper-batter kept the team ahead of himself, offering the opportunity to Sanju Samson. Prakash @definitelynot05 MATT SHORT BOWLING AND SANJU KEEPING IN PRACTICE MATCH AT CHEPAUK STADIUM 💛 Mar 27, 2026, 12:10 AM Samson will undoubtedly be his successor in the IPL, and MS Dhoni understands it very well. Although Dhoni hasn't officially announced his retirement from the IPL, he remains a critical part of the Super Kings' transition period. The way he has entertained fans and powered CSK to glory over the years, it will be a daunting task for Samson to fill the giant void left by Dhoni once he leaves the franchise. In such a scenario, the gesture of Chennai's beloved Thala is the symbolism of how much he cares for CSK's legacy, which he built brick by brick. Sanju Samson to open for CSK, confirms Ruturaj GaikwadTalking about Sanju Samson's role for CSK, he will replace Ayush Mhatre as the opening partner of Ruturaj Gaikwad. The skipper himself confirmed Samson's batting position while speaking to the broadcasters. Now, it will be interesting to see whether MS Dhoni hands him over the wicketkeeping duties and sets the tone for a fairytale transition in the IPL 2026. Also read: PSL 2026 Live Streaming In India, Live Telecast In India- Karachi vs Quetta, Match 2
