IPL 2026: Emotional occasion for Sanju Samson as Chennai Super Kings take on Rajasthan Royals

Guwahati: The third match of the Indian Premier League is scheduled to be played on Monday between the Chennai Super Kings and the Rajasthan Royals. This match is set to be an incredibly emotional occasion for Sanju Samson, who has been associated with the Rajasthan Royals for over a decade.

Why is this an emotional occasion for Sanju Samson?

This is because, this time around, he will be stepping out in the colors of the Chennai Super Kings to face his former team, the Rajasthan Royals. Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja will also be playing against his former franchise, adding a distinct emotional layer to this contest.

For over a decade, Samson served as the very face of the Rajasthan Royals. He was the team's premier batsman, captain, and highest run-scorer, having guided the side all the way to the final in 2022.

Just as MS Dhoni has long been synonymous with the Chennai Super Kings, Samson was the defining figure of the Rajasthan Royals. However, following a major trade that saw Jadeja return to Rajasthan, the Kerala batsman will now be seen sporting the yellow jersey—a move that has provided a fresh direction to CSK's new core group.

Samson is also currently in magnificent form. He played a pivotal role in India's T20 World Cup victory. By smashing three consecutive half-centuries in do-or-die encounters against the West Indies, England, and New Zealand, he has emerged as the nation's newest cricketing star.

Sanju Samson and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad will open the innings and will also form the central pillar of the team's leadership, as MS Dhoni is set to remain sidelined for at least two weeks due to a calf strain. Dhoni has not traveled with the team to Guwahati; consequently, in his absence, the onus of additional responsibility will fall upon Samson and Gaikwad.

Will Prashant Veer Get an Opportunity?

Dhoni's absence may also pave the way for young players to step up. Prashant Veer—a 20-year-old left-arm spin all-rounder who has impressed in domestic T20 cricket—could be handed an opportunity. Additionally, the uncapped Kartik Sharma, acquired for a sum of ₹14.2 crore, is another player known for his explosive batting prowess.

What about Vaibhav Suryavanshi?

For the Rajasthan Royals, Samson's departure marks the end of an era and the dawn of a new chapter. Riyan Parag will now take over the team's captaincy, making his debut as captain on his home ground. Ravindra Jadeja's return will provide Rajasthan with both experience and balance; however, the decline in his finishing abilities could be a cause for concern.

The team's batting lineup will now rely heavily on Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Nevertheless, Rajasthan's bowling remains a matter of concern. Changes have been implemented following a disappointing 2025 season, yet questions persist regarding the consistency of the pace attack led by Jofra Archer.

Rajasthan Royals' Probable Playing XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi, Adam Milne.

Impact Player: Aman Rao Peral.

Chennai Super Kings' Probable Playing XI: Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper), Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Anshul Kamboj, Rahul Chahar, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed.

Impact Player: Kartik Sharma.