Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend and former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has praised Sanju Samson's maiden century for the franchise, describing it as a defining innings that could boost both the player's confidence and the team's batting structure in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL).
Speaking on Star Sports as a JioStar expert, Raina said this century will relieve pressure on Samson, who joined a franchise with high expectations and a successful legacy in the cash-rich tournament. “The monkey is off Sanju Samson’s back now after this hundred. It is never easy walking into a new franchise and performing immediately, especially with the expectations Sanju has come in with. Joining the joint most successful side in the IPL comes with hard performance expectations,” he said.
He added that the innings will help Samson answer critics who have questioned his consistency under pressure. “This century will help Samson silence his critics,” Raina noted.
Raina also emphasised the tactical advantage Samson provides as an opener, stating that his role has strengthened CSK's middle order and overall batting flexibility. “His presence as an opener sets up CSK’s middle order so much better. When you have the ability to inject Shivam Dube or bring in Ayush Mhatre, he comes in and plays freely because they have got a decent start,” he explained.
The former cricketer highlighted that the improved top-order allowed players such as Dewald Brevis to remain unused in the recent match against the Delhi Capitals (DC). “Dewald Brevis didn’t even walk out to bat in this contest against Delhi. That just goes to show what structuring your top order right does for the rest of your team. The flow-on effect is clear,” he added.
CSK secured their first win of the season, breaking a six-match losing streak at home. Batting first against DC, Samson scored an unbeaten 115 off 56 balls, including 15 fours and four sixes, while Ayush Mhatre contributed 59 off 36 balls with three fours and four sixes, guiding CSK to 212 for 2 in 20 overs.
In reply, Pathum Nissanka scored 41 off 24 balls with five fours and two sixes, forming a 62-run partnership with KL Rahul, and Tristan Stubbs provided a valiant 60 from 30 balls. However, DC's innings faltered as Overton (4/18) and Kamboj (3/35) took wickets regularly.
CSK currently sit ninth with one win and three losses, while DC are fourth with two wins and two defeats.