Watch: CSK's new star Sanju Samson arrives in Chennai ahead of IPL 2026

IPL 2026: Sanju Samson has arrived in Chennai, and the buzz is already building. The new CSK recruit enters IPL 2026 on the back of a dream T20 World Cup, with expectations sky-high.

In Short

• Samson received loud welcome from CSK fans in Chennai
• He joined CSK in Rs 18 crore trade from RR
• Samson played a key role in India's T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

India's T20 World Cup 2026 hero Sanju Samson has touched down in Chennai ahead of IPL 2026, marking the start of his new chapter with Chennai Super Kings. The wicketkeeper-batter received a loud welcome from fans, with visuals of his arrival quickly going viral on social media.

CSK shared glimpses of Samson’s arrival on their official handles, and the reception had a familiar feel to it, with fans turning up in numbers. Samson joins the franchise after a Rs 18 crore trade deal from Rajasthan Royals, making him one of the biggest additions ahead of the new season.

Watch the video here:

This will be Samson's third IPL team after stints with Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals. The timing of the move could not have been better for Samson, who comes into the season on the back of a standout T20 World Cup 2026 campaign.

He scored 321 runs in five matches at an average of 80.25 and a strike rate of 199.37, finishing as one of India’s top performers in their title-winning run.

Samson’s tournament turned around once he was pushed up the order. From the Super 8s onwards, he delivered consistently under pressure.

An unbeaten 97 against West Indies, followed by 89 in the semi-final against England, and another 89 in the final against New Zealand made him one of the standout players of the tournament. He was eventually named Player of the Tournament.

WHAT CAN CSK EXPECT FROM SAMSON?

Samson is expected to slot straight into the top order, most likely opening alongside young Ayush Mhatre.

Given his recent form, CSK will rely on him to provide quick starts in the powerplay and set the tone early in the innings.

Earlier this month, Samson had also spoken about his excitement to work closely with CSK icon MS Dhoni, something that could be a key part of his growth at the franchise.

CSK begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 30 against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, and all eyes will be on how Samson starts in his new colours.

- Ends