Chennai: Chennai Super Kings batter Sanju Samson has addressed the growing speculation surrounding the franchise’s captaincy, saying he never joined the team with expectations of becoming captain and instead wanted to earn trust through performances.
Samson, who moved to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the IPL 2026 season, has emerged as one of the team’s standout performers this year. The wicketkeeper-batter has scored 402 runs in 10 matches, including two centuries, and currently leads the run charts for CSK.
Despite his strong leadership credentials from his time with Rajasthan Royals, where he guided the team to the IPL final in 2022, CSK management has continued to back Ruturaj Gaikwad as captain.
With questions around CSK’s leadership continuing to circulate, Samson clarified that captaincy was never part of his thinking when he made the switch to the Chennai franchise.
‘You don’t go to a new home with demands’
Speaking on the Super Kings podcast with former cricketer Abhinav Mukund, Samson explained that he joined CSK with the intention of contributing as a player rather than seeking leadership responsibilities.
“No,” Samson said when asked if becoming CSK captain crossed his mind after joining the franchise.
“I already had a team. I already had a place. I wanted to come out of there and join another team. So in that transaction, you can’t actually have demands,” he said.
Using an emotional analogy, Samson added that entering a new franchise requires humility and commitment rather than expectations.
“Honestly, you are trying to get into a new home. When you’re trying to get into a new home, you don’t go there with demands. That is what I have learned, to be very honest,” he said.
The Kerala batter further stated that his immediate priority was to prove his value to the franchise through performances and dedication.
“You go there, and you try to prove your worth. You try to behave the way you are, perform at your maximum, and from there you take on,” Samson explained.
Samson vows complete commitment to CSK
Samson also spoke emotionally about the trust CSK placed in him by bringing him into the squad and said he was ready to give his all for the five-time IPL champions.
Drawing a cultural connection, he said Malayalis are known for repaying trust with loyalty and hard work.
“A lot of Malayalis work in Chennai. A lot of Malayalis work in Dubai. The reason you are picking Malayalis is that they will give their life to repay the trust,” Samson said.
“CSK have trusted me and invited me here. I am ready to give my everything here,” he added.
Samson’s comments have been widely appreciated by fans on social media, with many praising his grounded attitude despite his experience as an IPL captain.
Praise for Ruturaj Gaikwad
The 31-year-old also had high praise for current CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, describing him as one of the calmest and most self-assured cricketers in Indian cricket.
“Rutu is honestly a very nice, a very different kind of an Indian cricketing superstar. He is a superstar. He is leading one of the biggest franchises. But he doesn’t behave like a normal superstar,” Samson said.
Although Gaikwad may appear quiet on the field, Samson believes the opener possesses immense confidence and maturity as a leader.
“He may not sound or behave like a confident guy, but I feel he is the most assured and confident cricketer in the Indian cricket circle,” he added.
Samson also appreciated Gaikwad’s willingness to welcome an experienced former captain into the team without insecurity.
“I have done it for another team for five years. He suddenly invited me to play on his team. He has immense confidence in himself as a cricketer and as a person to take actions like this,” Samson remarked.
He further stressed that actions matter more than words in cricket and leadership.
“Nowadays, people talk a lot like I will do this, I will do that, but more than talk, actions count much more,” he said.
CSK eye crucial playoff push
CSK currently sit sixth on the IPL 2026 points table with five wins and five defeats. The team remains in contention for a playoff berth, but the upcoming clash against Lucknow Super Giants is being viewed as crucial for their qualification hopes.
While Chennai’s batting unit has shown inconsistency this season, Samson’s excellent form has provided stability and momentum in key matches. His performances have strengthened CSK’s middle order and reduced pressure on other senior batters.
With the playoff race intensifying, both Samson and Gaikwad are expected to play vital roles as CSK aim to secure a place in the knockout stage.
Samson’s remarks have also helped cool speculation around internal competition for leadership, signalling unity within the Chennai dressing room during a decisive stage of the tournament.