Sanju Samson Faces Former Team in IPL Showdown: A New Chapter for CSK and RR

In an emotional IPL showdown, Sanju Samson prepares to face his former team, Rajasthan Royals, while playing for Chennai Super Kings. This match marks a significant moment as Samson, who was synonymous with RR for over a decade, steps into a new role. With MS Dhoni sidelined due to injury, Samson and skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad will lead CSK against a Royals team undergoing its own transformation under new captain Riyan Parag. Both teams are eager to turn around their fortunes after disappointing seasons, making this clash one to watch.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 30, 2026, 09:03 IST

Emotional Showdown in Guwahati

Sanju Samson is gearing up for a heartfelt encounter against the Rajasthan Royals, the franchise he captained for over ten years, as he dons the colors of Chennai Super Kings. This match, taking place on Monday, also features Ravindra Jadeja facing off against his former team, adding an emotional layer to the IPL clash.

For more than a decade, Samson was the face of RR, serving as their key batsman, captain, and all-time leading run-scorer, leading them to the finals in 2022.

Similar to MS Dhoni's role at CSK, Samson embodied the Royals' spirit. However, following a significant trade that saw Jadeja return to RR, the Kerala batsman now finds himself in the yellow jersey, contributing to CSK's evolving dynamics.

Samson arrives in excellent form, having played a crucial role in India's victorious T20 World Cup campaign.

His impressive streak of three consecutive half-centuries in crucial matches against West Indies, England, and New Zealand has elevated his status as a national star, bringing him renewed confidence.

Alongside skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is expected to open the innings, they will lead the team in Dhoni's absence, who is sidelined for at least two weeks due to a calf injury.

Dhoni's absence from the Guwahati trip places additional pressure on Samson and Gaikwad.

CSK's bowling lineup, featuring Noor Ahmad, Akeal Hosein, Matt Henry, and Khaleel Ahmed, promises a mix of variety and control.

For RR, the loss of Samson marks the end of an era, paving the way for Riyan Parag to take the helm as captain at his home ground.

Jadeja's return brings experience and stability, though concerns linger regarding his finishing abilities.

The batting lineup will now rely heavily on Yashasvi Jaiswal, who steps up as the senior-most player in the top order.

He will be supported by the talented Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the in-form Shimron Hetmyer, who are expected to provide explosive performances, especially during the powerplay, where RR excelled last season.

However, the bowling department raises some concerns.

Despite a significant overhaul after a disappointing 2025 season, doubts remain about the pace attack led by Jofra Archer, while the spin department will depend on Jadeja and Ravi Bishnoi.

Both teams are looking to bounce back after lackluster seasons, with CSK finishing at the bottom and RR just above them in ninth place.