“The Monkey Is Off Sanju Samson’s Back”: Raina Hails CSK Star After Match-Winning Century

Chennai Super Kings registered their first win of IPL 2026 with a 23-run victory over Delhi Capitals, while Punjab Kings continued their impressive run earlier in the day with a six-wicket win against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Following the two matches, former cricketers Suresh Raina and Faf du Plessis analysed key performances and team trends, highlighting Sanju Samson's impact at the top and Delhi Capitals' growing dependence on Sameer Rizvi.

Sanju Samson Century Stabilises CSK's Top Order

Sanju Samson's century against Delhi Capitals was seen as a significant turning point not just for the batter, but for Chennai Super Kings' campaign as a whole.

Speaking on the impact of the innings, Suresh Raina noted that the hundred would ease the pressure that had built around Samson since joining the franchise.

"The monkey is off Sanju Samson's back now after this hundred. It is never easy walking into a new franchise and performing immediately, especially with the expectations Sanju has come in with. Joining one of the most successful sides in the IPL comes with high performance expectations," Raina said on Jio Star.

Raina also emphasised how Samson's presence at the top of the order strengthens Chennai's batting structure, giving greater flexibility to the middle order.

"His presence as an opener sets up CSK's middle order so much better. When you have the ability to bring in Shivam Dube or Ayush Mhatre after a strong start, they can play freely. Dewald Brevis didn't even have to bat in this contest, and that shows how structuring your top order correctly impacts the rest of the lineup."

Concerns Grow Over Delhi Capitals' Dependence on Sameer Rizvi

While Sameer Rizvi has delivered impressive performances this season, Raina suggested that Delhi Capitals relying heavily on a relatively young player could become a concern moving forward.

"When a side like DC has been bailed out a couple of times by one player who is not yet an international-standard superstar, it raises concern," he explained.

Raina highlighted how Delhi's middle-order collapse ultimately cost them the match, despite being in a promising position during the chase.

"The alarm bells for me were that they lost wickets in quick succession during the middle phase. They were set up beautifully by the CSK bowlers after five overs, but then they just relinquished all of it."

Jamie Overton's Spell Highlighted as Match-Winning Contribution

Another standout performance from the contest came from Jamie Overton, whose disciplined bowling played a decisive role in Chennai's victory.

Raina felt that Overton's contribution deserved even greater recognition, calling him one of the most impactful players in the match.

"Jamie Overton is a serious cricketer for me. He should have been the player of the match. He outsmarted all the DC batters with his variations. Picking up four wickets on a batting-friendly wicket was the point of difference," Raina observed.

He further added that Overton's ability to perform under pressure makes him a valuable asset in high-stakes contests.

"He is one of those players you want when the game is on the line. He enjoys big moments and consistently delivers when given responsibility."

Gaikwad's Leadership Earns Praise After CSK's First Win

Chennai captain Ruturaj Gaikwad also received praise for his leadership, with Faf du Plessis noting that the team's earlier losses were not due to tactical errors.

"I think Ruturaj Gaikwad's captaincy has been very good. Even in the previous games, there were no tactical blunders or major errors from his side," du Plessis said.

He added that securing the first win of the season could have a positive effect on Gaikwad's confidence, both as captain and batter.

"For him individually, this win will go a long way. Sometimes, as captain, you feel burdened by results. Now that CSK have put points on the board, he will feel more at ease, and that confidence will reflect in his batting."