A big change is on the cards for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026), starting on March 28. The five-time IPL champions have brought in star wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, and Faf du Plessis believes that he could soon take over the wicketkeeping role that has belonged to the legendary MS Dhoni since 2008.
The legendary wicketkeeper-batter has been the face of the Chennai Super Kings since the league’s inception in 2008. Dhoni has led the team to five IPL titles with his calm leadership and smart wicket-keeping, making him one of the best in the tournament’s history.
Faf du Plessis backs Sanju Samson as future wicketkeeper for CSK
But with the former Indian captain now 44 years old, the CSK team management has started preparing for the future, trading Sanju Samson from the Rajasthan Royals for the squad while parting ways with Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
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The trade created massive buzz as Jadeja had been a key part of CSK for many years. Well, Samson’s arrival also comes at a perfect time, as the Kerala wicketkeeper is in outstanding form and delivered a memorable performance in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
He played a big role in India’s title-winning campaign and finished as the Player of the Tournament. Sanju has the experience both as a wicketkeeper and captain, and now many expect the Kerala star to start easing Dhoni’s duty behind the wicket.
MS Dhoni should hand over wicketkeeping to Sanju Samson!!
However, former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis admitted that Dhoni has 10 years of cricket left as the wicketkeeper, but one day he will have to stop, and at that time, Samson can easily take over the wicketkeeping role for the team without any problem.
Faf du Plessis said on Star Sports, “In terms of keeping, maybe another 10 years MS Dhoni is going to play, but after that, someone else has to take the gloves eventually. And he would be the guy to do it and just step into that seamlessly.”
The former CSK opener also hailed the trade, saying Samson’s presence will also strengthen CSK’s batting lineup. He pointed out that strong top-order partnerships have been a big reason behind the team’s success in the league over the years.
Ex-CSK star hails Sanju Samson trade
With Sanju Samson now joining the squad, the Chennai team could have a very exciting top order. Aayush Mhatre is expected to open alongside Samson, and the skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad will bat at No. 3.
In the modern era, teams want aggressive players who can attack bowlers right from the powerplay, and Samson’s fearless batting with calm makes him a perfect fit for CSK’s plans.
Du Plessis said, “It’s a really good trade from CSK. If you look at the superpowers over the years for CSK, you think of opening pairs. Be it Vijay and Hussey or Watson and Ruturaj and myself, the iconic opening stands. This will be another one of those, even with Rutu at 3. But that top three now looks really well balanced in terms of attacking players.”
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