The IPL mini-auction is just around the corner, and ahead of it, Chennai Super Kings have secured Sanju Samson. For the first time, Sanju appeared publicly in a CSK jersey. In a video released by CSK, the 31-year-old wicketkeeper-batter is seen in yellow. Wearing the jersey made him feel “like a champion.”
Speculation around Sanju had been ongoing for quite some time. Reports suggested he was no longer getting along with the Rajasthan Royals management. Meanwhile, Chennai had long been searching for MS Dhoni’s successor. The deal was delayed due to negotiations, but eventually CSK agreed to Rajasthan’s terms and released Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in exchange for Sanju. Jadeja has returned to the team where he began his IPL career. Now, the question is whether CSK will name Sanju as captain.
Before that, an emotional Sanju appeared in the ‘Yellow Army’ colours. In a video posted on CSK’s social media, Sanju is seen in jersey number 11. He says, “I’ve been waiting for this day. I’m lucky to wear the yellow jersey. I’ve worn other colours before, but this one feels special. It feels amazing to wear it.” He adds, “I never imagined how it would feel to wear a CSK jersey. It’s a very positive feeling. I feel like a champion.”
Sanju was first signed by Rajasthan in 2013. He played three seasons with them in his first stint. In 2018 he was re-signed by the Royals, becoming the face of the franchise. He was made captain in 2021, led them to the final in 2022, and took them to the playoffs again in 2024. But issues between him and the management reportedly began last season.
CSK will enter the mini-auction with a purse of ₹43.40 crore.
