Sanju Samson’s impending move to Chennai Super Kings carries significant implications for MS Dhoni’s IPL future. The trade, which would send Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals, positions Samson as Dhoni’s long-term successor—potentially accelerating the legend’s exit from the franchise.​

The Succession Plan

CSK see Samson as the final piece in their post-Dhoni puzzle. At 30, he brings wicketkeeping skills, explosive batting, and captaincy experience from his time leading Rajasthan Royals. After years without a clear succession plan, CSK are eager to groom a worthy heir to Dhoni’s throne.​

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes Dhoni is driving this trade. “Both players started their IPL careers in 2008. Since joining CSK, Dhoni has never left the franchise. If this trade happens, it could be his last season—maybe even one he doesn’t finish. If Sanju settles well with the team and management, Dhoni could hand him the reins,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.​

Dhoni’s Reduced Role

Samson’s arrival would allow Dhoni to step back from wicketkeeping duties, preserving his fitness and enabling him to focus on mentoring and tactical roles. The 44-year-old could become an Impact Player for most matches, coming in during crucial situations while Samson handles the gloves full-time.​

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed Dhoni will play in IPL 2026, stating, “We are extremely hopeful that he will be playing the next season”. However, that assurance came before the Samson trade gained momentum.​

Leadership Questions

Samson’s captaincy credentials make him attractive not just as a wicketkeeper-batter but as a potential leader. Current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad hasn’t delivered as CSK hoped in recent years, with the team finishing last in IPL 2025.​

Kaif pointed out that Jadeja struggled when given the captaincy in 2022, managing just one win in CSK’s first eight games before Dhoni returned to the role. “Jadeja tried captaincy but wasn’t comfortable. Not everyone can lead in the IPL. Dhoni’s long-term vision seems clear—he’s ready to give up Jadeja to bring in a future captain,” Kaif explained.​

Birthday Wishes Fuel Speculation

CSK added fuel to the fire by wishing Samson on his 30th birthday on November 11, posting “More power to you, Sanju! Wishing you a super birthday!” on social media. The public greeting from a franchise that doesn’t currently employ him strongly suggests the trade is nearly complete.​

Dhoni’s Strategic Vision

Dhoni has been actively involved in planning for next season and participated in discussions about trading Jadeja. He personally gauged Jadeja’s willingness to return to Rajasthan, and the deal only progressed after the all-rounder agreed.​

Kaif believes winning remains Dhoni’s top priority. “For Dhoni, making the team win is the biggest goal. If he is coming to play again, he will be thinking CSK finished 10th in the standings last year. He is a man of pride; hence, his biggest goal will be to make the team win another trophy,” Kaif noted.​

The Mentorship Phase

If the trade materializes, Samson would benefit from one season under Dhoni’s mentorship, learning CSK’s culture and expectations. Given Samson’s experience—having captained RR for multiple seasons and scored 4,027 runs in IPL—one season alongside Dhoni might be enough preparation to take over completely.​

Timeline and Possibilities

With the November 15 retention deadline approaching, CSK face several scenarios. Dhoni could play the entire 2026 season with Samson as his understudy. Alternatively, he might transition to a limited role mid-season if Samson settles quickly. There’s even the remote possibility that Samson’s arrival could push Dhoni out before IPL 2026 begins, though CSK have publicly committed to his participation.​

Dhoni has appeared in 248 matches for CSK across 16 seasons, scoring 4,865 runs and leading them to five championships. If 2026 becomes his final season, it would mark his 17th year with the franchise and 19th overall in the IPL—a fitting farewell for one of cricket’s greatest leaders.​

The Samson trade represents more than a player swap—it’s CSK preparing for life after Dhoni while giving their legend one last chance to shape the franchise’s future.