'Playing with him...' - Sanju Samson opens up on learning from MS Dhoni after joining CSK ahead of IPL 2026

Sanju Samson says playing alongside MS Dhoni at Chennai Super Kings will be a big learning opportunity, calling the CSK legend “Mahi bhai”.

Sanju Samson (Image | BCCI on X)

Sanju Samson is all set to play for his new franchise, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 30 against his former team Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Guwahati. Samson, who was the skipper in RR, was traded to CSK ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. In place of him, RR included Ravindra Jadeja as a trade replacement.

A few days ago, Samson's father mentioned that he got offers from KKR and other teams but he settled for CSK because of MS Dhoni. The former CSK captain, Dhoni, has a lot of influence on other players and hence, his presence is always appreciated. Samson opened up on playing with Dhoni and how he is ready to learn new things from him.

“I have spoken to Mahi bhai over the phone and interacted with him, but playing with him as part of a team will be great. I see it as an opportunity to learn from him,” said Sanju Samson as quoted by PTI.

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CSK will play against RR on March 30

One of the most anticipated clash of the season is between the Rajasthan Royals and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 30 in Guwahati. The teams have traded players, making their clash an important one this season. The fans are waiting to see the performance of both Jadeja and Samson in the IPL 2026. Samson, who is in great form, will look forward to learning everything from MS Dhoni.

He will play under Dhoni for the first time. Meanwhile, his batting position is a dilemma that CSK will need to clear before the start of the IPL. Moreover, several former players have urged the management to play Samson at No. 3 and let Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ayush Mhatre open the innings for the Super Kings.

The expectations are quite high from Samson and Shivam Dube as they were the star in the T20 World Cup. They helped India lift the trophy with his outstanding performance in the tournament. All eyes will be on the Super Kings and Sanju Samson.

Also read: KL Rahul’s surprise appearance at KKR camp sparks buzz ahead of IPL 2026

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