Sanju Samson (Image credit: BCCI/IPL/CSK) NEW DELHI: The monkey has finally disappeared from Sanju Samson’s shoulders. It was emotional for the goalkeeper as his teammates surrounded him with ticker tapes, hugs and celebrations. However, Samson looked calm and content with a big smile after playing a key role in Chennai Super Kings’ first win in IPL 2026.Samson, who scored 6, 7 and 9 in CSK’s first three matches, roared in style with a magnificent century to lead his team to a 23-run win over Delhi Capitals on Saturday and finally open his account after three straight defeats.The batsman, who was traded from Rajasthan Royals before the season, made his first big contribution in CSK colors after initial struggles. He entered the IPL with high expectations after scoring three half-centuries in the India T20 World Cup at home in March.Samson’s unbeaten 115 off 56 balls, along with Ayush Mhatre’s 59 off 36, powered CSK to a formidable 212 for 2. The pair stitched together a 113-run stand for the second wicket. In response, Delhi Capitals faltered against a brilliant spell from Jamie Overton, who took 4 for 18 as they were bowled out for 189.“It really means a lot. The trust they showed, it was very responsible. Fortunately, everything went well. It never felt like a different franchise. The people are so nice. Even after losing three games, we had a fifty-second meeting today,” Sanju Samson said after being named the man of the match.“I failed a lot. The mind gets a bit here and there. I need to know what my fundamentals are. It’s about getting the fundamentals right. We did some good sessions with the support staff,” he added.Samson was the main architect of CSK’s memorable night in Chepauk. Asked to bat first, he registered his first big knock in a CSK jersey and shared a dominant partnership with Mhatra, who showcased his growing maturity in a vital stand of 113 runs in just over 11 overs.It was Samson’s fourth IPL hundred and his first for CSK, as well as the first century of the IPL 2026 season. The knock was crucial in restoring faith among the CSK faithful, especially after a poor start to the campaign.“It was very important to have a great partnership. Ayush showed so much maturity. (At his celebration) That was for Fleming, I know how challenging it can be. I just wanted to dedicate it to him,” he said.
