New Delhi, April 12 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer and Chennai Super Kings player Suresh Raina expressed that Sanju Samson's remarkable century against the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026 has finally lifted the weight of expectation off his shoulders and effectively silenced his detractors.

Samson’s impressive unbeaten score of 115 runs from 56 balls, featuring 15 boundaries and four sixes with a strike rate of 205.36, marks the first century of the IPL 2026 season, especially noteworthy following a struggling start in the initial three matches.

Raina commented, "The burden is gone for Sanju Samson after this century. Entering a new franchise and performing under such pressure is never straightforward, particularly given the expectations that accompany joining the most successful team in IPL history. This knock will certainly help Samson quiet his critics," during his analysis on Star Sports.

This was the performance CSK and their dedicated fans eagerly anticipated from the newly-acquired Samson after his transfer from Rajasthan Royals last year. He became the first wicketkeeper-batter to score a century for CSK in IPL history, joining KL Rahul as the only player to achieve this feat for three different franchises.

"His role as an opener significantly strengthens CSK’s middle order. With players like Shivam Dube and Ayush Mhatre, he can play more freely thanks to a solid start," Raina added.

"Batting alongside someone who is completely in control of their game provides immense flexibility. Dewald Brevis didn’t even have to bat in this match against Delhi, illustrating how an organized top order benefits the entire team. The positive ripple effect is evident," Raina noted.

While acknowledging Samson’s outstanding century, Raina highlighted seam-bowling all-rounder Jamie Overton as the standout player of the match. “For me, Jamie Overton is a top-tier cricketer. He should have been named player of the match, as he outplayed all the DC batters with his clever variations,” he stated.

“The four wickets he claimed on a pitch favorable for batting were crucial. He thrives in high-pressure moments, consistently delivering in critical situations, whether in franchise cricket or for England,” Raina elaborated.

Shifting focus to the Delhi Capitals, Raina raised concerns about their dependence on young batter Sameer Rizvi and their middle-order collapse during the chase, which resulted in a total of 189 runs.

"When a team like DC relies heavily on a player who is still emerging and not yet an international superstar, it can be concerning. Sameer Rizvi has started his career positively, but the expectations placed on him to lead the team can be overwhelming for someone still new to IPL cricket," he pointed out.

"The alarming aspect for me is the rapid loss of wickets during the middle overs of the chase. CSK bowlers set a solid foundation after the first five overs, tightening the screws on a team struggling with form and confidence. Yet, they let it all slip away," concluded Raina.