IPL 2026, PBKS vs CSK: Sanju Samson will be under the spotlight when Chennai Super Kings face Punjab Kings in the Match 7 of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as the wicketkeeper-batter looks to overcome a poor record at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Samson, who was named Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup 2026, joined CSK ahead of the season in a high-profile trade from Rajasthan Royals involving Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
As MS Dhoni sidelined due to a calf strain, Samson is expected to shoulder additional responsibility in the batting unit. However, his CSK debut did not go as planned, as he managed just six runs before being dismissed by Nandre Burger in the opener against his former team Rajasthan Royals.
While it will be Samson’s first appearance at Chepauk in CSK colours, the venue has not been particularly kind to him in the past. In five IPL matches at the ground, he has scored just 59 runs at an average of 11.80, with a highest score of 26.
His struggles at the venue are further reflected in his scoring patterns, with a dot-ball percentage of 38.9 and a high rate of false shots against both pace and spin.
Samson’s previous outings at Chepauk include scores of 26 in 2015, eight in 2019, a duck in 2023 and modest returns across two innings in 2024.
As CSK look to bounce back from a poor start to their campaign, much will depend on Samson finding form and overcoming his Chepauk struggles against a strong Punjab Kings attack.
The home crowd will be hoping the experienced batter can finally turn the tide at a venue that has historically posed challenges for him.
