‘CSK did not need Sanju’: Hanuma Vihari uncovers the true motive behind Samson’s IPL 2026 trade

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In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Indian Premier League (IPL) community, veteran Indian batter Hanuma Vihari has pulled back the curtain on one of the most significant trades in league history. Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, Sanju Samson‘s high-profile move from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) to the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) was finalized in exchange for the legendary Ravindra Jadeja and England all-rounder Sam Curran.

Vihari suggests that the Chennai’s decision to acquire Samson was a calculated move to secure a massive, loyal fanbase rather than a desperate hunt for a new opening batter. Speaking via a video on his Instagram account, Vihari pointed out that in the high-stakes world of the IPL, a player’s marketability often rivals their on-field prowess.

“Samson enjoys huge fan support in the South. When you think about the IPL, it is not just about cricket and if you believe otherwise, you are mistaken. That is because IPL owners think beyond cricket and focus on how much commercial value a player can bring to the team. Samson is a cricketer with a massive fan following. Wherever games are played, Kerala fans turn up and cheer for him. CSK don’t need an opener for the next season. They already have openers.” Vihari said.

Also READ: After trading Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals consider ownership change ahead of IPL 2026

Vihari’s analysis focuses on the existing depth of the CSK roster, which already features established stars and rising talents at the top of the order. By trading for Samson, CSK has created an intensely competitive environment for the opening positions, a move Vihari views as unnecessary from a purely tactical standpoint. He believes that the team already possessed sufficient firepower to lead their innings without making such a massive sacrifice.

“Ruturaj Gaikwad is also a player who plays as an opener. So, in reality, they did not need Sanju in the team. After returning from injury, he also played at number three for the Rajasthan Royals in the previous season. The likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Aayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel are potent opening options for Chennai while Samson’s arrival makes competition at the top even more intense. In fact, Samson could be given the no. 3 role in the team.” Vihari concluded.

As the franchise looks toward its long-term future, Vihari believes the trade was designed to establish Samson as the new face of the team. With MS Dhoni‘s eventual departure looming, the franchise needed a hero figure who could command the same level of regional devotion. By bringing in a Kerala icon with a Pan-India appeal, CSK isn’t just buying a wicketkeeper-batter; they are investing in a brand that ensures stadiums remain packed and social media engagement stays at an all-time high.

Also READ: Rajasthan Royals’ most expensive players at each IPL auction: From Sanju Samson to Ben Stokes