Former India spin all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin recently made a big prediction about the future leadership of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the IPL 2026. The cricketer turned commentator said that wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has all the qualities to become captain of the five-time champions.
The Chennai franchise will face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday, April 18. They secured a 32-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Chepauk in their previous game. The visiting squad aims to continue their momentum after a difficult start to the tournament.
Ravichandran Ashwin Backs Sanju Samson to Captain CSK in the Future
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Ravichandran Ashwin said that Samson will lead the Chennai Super Kings in the future. However, the veteran off-spinner added that the wicketkeeper should not try to copy past legends and should build his leadership style.
“I can tell you something – I do see Sanju captaining CSK at some stage. I don’t know when, but I can see that happening. Whether we agree or not, a lot of things happen in the system. But one thing I would not want to risk or want for Sanju, because I am a serious well-wisher of his, is him stepping into anybody’s shoes,” Ravichandran Ashwin told ESPNcricinfo.
“You don’t have to step into anybody’s legacy. We don’t necessarily need to live up like that or even play like that. He has his own unique style, which he lives in. And I want to see his own imprint on it,” he added.
Does R Ashwin see Sanju Samson captaining CSK at some point? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/SjTAJb19DI
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) April 18, 2026
Sanju Samson Emerges as MS Dhoni Successor for CSK
Chennai Super Kings have been searching for a long-term successor to MS Dhoni over the past few seasons. After an unsuccessful captaincy stint under Ravindra Jadeja, the team handed leadership duties to Ruturaj Gaikwad in 2024.
Dhoni returned to captain the team midway through the tournament in 2025, but the team finished at the bottom of the table for the first time. Ruturaj is currently leading the side in IPL 2026.
The franchise made a bold move ahead of the 2026 season by trading Jadeja for Sanju Samson. This decision sparked discussions about future leadership plans, as Samson brings proven captaincy experience from domestic and IPL cricket.
Samson’s calm approach and tactical awareness make him a strong long-term option. With Dhoni nearing the end of his career and Gaikwad still developing as a leader, Chennai Super Kings may see Samson as a reliable future captain.
Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad Performances in IPL 2026
Sanju Samson had a slightly slow start with his new franchise but quickly found form with two strong performances. The wicketkeeper-batter scored a brilliant century against Delhi Capitals (DC) and has scored 185 runs in five innings at an average of over 46 with an impressive strike rate of 172.89.
In contrast, current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has struggled to get going with the bat. The opener has managed just 63 runs in five matches at an average of 12.60, raising concerns that captaincy pressure may be affecting his natural game.
These contrasting performances have sparked debate over the team’s leadership direction. The management will have to decide whether to continue backing Gaikwad or consider handing captaincy responsibilities to Sanju Samson ahead of the next IPL season.
Also read: “It doesn’t matter” – Shubman Gill reacts after claiming Orange Cap in IPL 2026
