Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have built one of the strongest legacies in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, with five titles making them one of the most successful franchises in the competition. However, the team’s recent campaigns have been a far cry from the consistency that has defined CSK over the years. Since their title-winning season in 2023, the five-time champions have failed to make the playoffs.

The transition in leadership following MS Dhoni‘s decision to step aside has also proved challenging. Ruturaj Gaikwad took over the captaincy, but CSK have struggled to find the same stability and momentum they enjoyed during Dhoni’s tenure. Their problems became even more noticeable in IPL 2026, when Dhoni was unavailable throughout the season due to injury.

CSK also made a significant addition before the 2026 campaign by bringing in Sanju Samson as an opener and wicketkeeper. Samson quickly made an impact with the bat, finishing the season as the team’s highest run-scorer with 477 runs from 14 matches. His performances have now sparked an interesting debate over whether he could have a bigger role to play at the franchise beyond his batting and wicketkeeping duties.

Ex-India cricketer explains why Sanju Samson should lead CSK in IPL 2027

Former India batter Sadagoppan Ramesh believes CSK should seriously consider handing the captaincy to Samson if the franchise decides to make a leadership change ahead of IPL 2027. Ramesh pointed towards Samson’s experience of leading in the IPL and his ability to operate effectively as part of a team. The former cricketer feels these qualities could make the 31-year-old a suitable option for CSK as they attempt to rebuild.

“CSK are seemingly considering many options for the captaincy and even wondering whether a change is needed. Sanju Samson should be considered as captain because he’s such a fantastic team player,” Ramesh said on his Instagram handle.

Samson spent five seasons as Rajasthan Royals captain between 2021 and 2025. During that period, he led the franchise to the IPL final in 2022 and helped them make another playoff appearance. Ramesh also highlighted Samson’s captaincy record, noting that he has led 66 IPL matches and won 33 of them, giving him a 50 per cent success rate. However, he made it clear that appointing Samson would not automatically solve CSK’s problems.

“Of course, CSK need several other things to change, and just making Sanju the captain won’t win them the trophy. But if at all they change captains, Sanju must be strongly considered,” he added.

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Ruturaj Gaikwad faces pressure after inconsistent campaign

While Samson enjoyed a productive campaign, Gaikwad’s 2026 season was considerably less impressive. The CSK captain scored 337 runs in 14 matches at an average of 28.08, leaving the franchise with another question to answer regarding its leadership setup.

His difficulties were particularly evident during the powerplay, where he registered the lowest strike rate among CSK batters. With the team already struggling for consistency, Gaikwad’s lack of impact at the top added to the pressure surrounding the side.

The contrast between the two players’ campaigns has naturally strengthened the argument for a possible leadership change. Samson not only finished ahead of Gaikwad in the team’s run-scoring charts but also brought several years of captaincy experience with him. That said, CSK’s problems extend beyond the captaincy. The franchise will need improvements in several departments if it hopes to return to the playoffs and challenge for another title.

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