Chennai:
Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has candidly explained the franchise’s bold decision to trade Ravindra Jadeja for Sanju Samson, admitting that the move was driven largely by the need to prepare for a future without MS Dhoni.
Speaking at the IPL 2026 auction, Fleming said the management had to think beyond immediate seasons and plan for a leadership and batting transition once the legendary wicketkeeper-batter eventually retires. Dhoni, who has led CSK to a record-equalling five IPL titles, is widely regarded as being in the final phase of his illustrious career.
“For us, the opportunity was there,” Fleming said. “We felt we were still a little bit light in our opening batting. And we were also looking at the fact that at some point, MS will move on.”
Calling Sanju Samson an “international-quality player,” Fleming said the wicketkeeper-batter fits perfectly into CSK’s long-term vision.
“Sanju is an international-quality player, and he fills that role very well. So it’s succession planning, but also about refreshing the group and looking at what Chennai will look like in six years, not just two,” he added.
Jadeja, Sam Curran Head to Rajasthan Royals in Major Trade
The trade was one of the biggest calls made by CSK in recent years. Along with Ravindra Jadeja, England all-rounder Sam Curran was also sent to Rajasthan Royals as part of the deal to secure Samson’s services.
Letting go of Jadeja — a long-time CSK stalwart — underlined the franchise’s willingness to move away from sentiment and focus on long-term squad balance.
CSK Move Away from ‘Veterans-Only’ Image
Fleming acknowledged that CSK, traditionally known for backing experienced players, may have been slow to adapt to the changing demands of modern T20 cricket.
“As the game has evolved, we might have been a little bit slow to evolve with it,” Fleming admitted. “Only halfway through the (2025) tournament we had a big shift.”
That shift became evident during IPL 2025 when CSK began integrating younger, uncapped players such as Ayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel. The trend continued aggressively at the IPL 2026 auction on December 16, where the franchise spent ₹14.2 crore each on uncapped talents Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma.
“You saw with the players we got in as reserves, there was a shift in what we needed to do,” Fleming said, indicating a clear change in recruitment philosophy.
A New Era Takes Shape at Chennai Super Kings
The Samson trade signals a decisive moment for CSK — balancing respect for their legendary past while laying the groundwork for a new era. With Dhoni’s eventual exit inevitable, the franchise appears determined to ensure continuity rather than disruption.
As Fleming put it, the focus is no longer just about winning the next season, but about what Chennai Super Kings will look like years down the line.