‘There was a desire’: Sanju Samson on missing ton; Sunil Gavaskar says, ‘he played for the team’
Sanju Samson's unbeaten 87 steered Chennai Super Kings to a crucial victory over Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. Prioritising the team's win over a personal century, Samson displayed remarkable composure and calculated aggression. His mature approach earned praise from cricket legends, highlighting his significant impact on CSK's playoff aspirations this season.
NEW DELHI: On a night where milestones beckoned, Sanju Samson chose substance over statistics, guiding Chennai Super Kings to a vital win with a match-winning unbeaten 87 against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Samson admitted after the game that the thought of a third century this season had crossed his mind, but winning the match unbeaten gave him “more satisfaction”. “Hundreds are always special.
There was a desire, but I had to be a bit too selfish to get it… winning the game gives you more confidence, satisfaction and happiness,” he said with a smile during the post-match presentation. Calm, control and calculated aggression Chasing 156 on a sluggish surface, CSK were under early pressure at 45/2. Samson, however, remained unfazed.
Known for his composure, the wicketkeeper-batter emphasised that his calm demeanour is nothing new. “To be very honest, I am always like this… even outside, I am calm,” he said. ALSO READ: KL Rahul overtakes Abhishek Sharma to reclaim Orange Cap; Sanju Samson jumps to fifth Samson revealed he has been working on his initial movement, tailoring it based on bowlers and match situations.
That preparation showed as he anchored the chase, initially cautious at 22 off 22 balls before shifting gears seamlessly. He brought up his half-century in the 12th over and then dismantled the Delhi attack with controlled aggression. His unbeaten 114-run stand with Kartik Sharma ensured CSK crossed the line with ease, finishing the chase with 15 balls to spare.