IPL 2026: Raina Advocates for Samson's Key Role at No. 3 for CSK

Key Takeaways

Sanju Samson should bat at No.

Samson's recent performance in the T20 World Cup is commendable.

Raina favors Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ayush Mhatre to open the innings.

MS Dhoni's role may be limited in IPL 2026.

Samson's transition to CSK is critical for team dynamics.

New Delhi, March 14 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina asserts that Sanju Samson should occupy the No. 3 batting position for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, emphasizing that this role would enhance the overall balance of the team’s batting lineup.

Samson enters the IPL 2026 following impressive performances in the recently completed ICC T20 World Cup, where he notched consecutive half-centuries in the Super8s against the West Indies, the semi-final against England, and the final against New Zealand while opening the innings.

Despite his successful run as an opener, Raina recommends that CSK should start with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ayush Mhatre at the top of the order, positioning Samson at No. 3 to stabilize the batting unit and connect the top and middle order effectively.

“He has been the captain of the Rajasthan Royals for many seasons. His role here will be crucial. Will it be Sanju Samson or Ruturaj opening with Mhatre? Or will Ayush bat at number three? I believe placing Sanju at No. 3 would be beneficial, allowing Dewald Brevis to come in at number four,” Raina stated during an interview with Jio Hotstar.

“Shivam Dube would follow at number five. The sixth position will depend on team selections. Will Prashant Veer be included? Or Akhil Hussain? We need to consider how many international fast bowlers will be playing,” he added.

Raina also endorsed Samson to take the wicketkeeping role for CSK over veteran skipper MS Dhoni, noting the rising admiration for the Kerala-born player among fans, while reiterating that Samson’s spot at number three would be pivotal for guiding the innings.

“Sanju will definitely be the keeper. We witnessed the positive environment he fostered during the World Cup. His performance and presence are vital at number three. If Ayush Mhatre and Ruturaj Gaikwad start strong, the middle order becomes more robust and experienced,” he remarked.

“Otherwise, we might just see MS Dhoni coming in for the final overs. It’s essential to have a player like Sanju who adds significant experience when Brevis and then Dube follow,” Raina concluded.

Samson has transitioned from the Rajasthan Royals to CSK, replacing Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Over his career, Samson has participated in 177 IPL matches, accumulating 4707 runs at an average of 30.95.

Point of View

Suresh Raina's advocacy for Sanju Samson at No. 3 highlights strategic insights for CSK's batting order in the upcoming IPL 2026. Raina's views reflect the importance of balancing experience and youth in a competitive landscape.

NationPress

14 Jul 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Raina suggest Samson bat at No. 3?

Raina believes that batting at No. 3 will provide stability and link the top order to the middle order, enhancing the team's overall balance.

What has been Sanju Samson's recent performance?

Samson has excelled in the T20 World Cup, scoring consecutive half-centuries, showcasing his form ahead of IPL 2026.

Who will open the innings for CSK according to Raina?

Raina suggests that Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ayush Mhatre should open the innings for CSK.

What is Raina's opinion on MS Dhoni's role?

Raina feels Dhoni may only play a limited role towards the end of matches, emphasizing the need for experienced players like Samson earlier in the innings.

How has Samson's transition to CSK affected the team?

Samson's move from Rajasthan Royals to CSK replaces key players, bringing his experience to strengthen CSK's batting lineup.