After making just 6 runs in IPL 2026 opener, Sanju Samson falls for 7 on CSK home debut

Sanju Samson's much-awaited Chennai Super Kings (CSK) home debut ended early against Punjab Kings on Friday.

Sanju edged behind a Xavier Bartlett delivery as he made room to drive through cover. He had fetched a boundary the ball before that by standing tall and clearing mid-off. Sanju made 7 off 7, becoming the first CSK wicket to fall at Chepauk on the night.

Punjab won by five wickets to deliver CSK a second defeat of the campaign. Ayush Mhatre (73) and Shivam Dube (45 not out) had powered CSK to 209/5. But captain Shreyas Iyer (50) led the chase as the visitors won with eight balls to spare.

The Kerala star did not have a memorable start to the season earlier this week when he was removed for 6 off 7 by Nandre Burger of Rajasthan Royals. A quick one from the South African went through his defence and removed the off stump.

A lot was expected of Sanju since his high-profile move to CSK from Rajasthan Royals ahead of the season. Sanju is widely seen as successor to M S Dhoni, who has been the face of CSK since the franchise league began in 2007.

Sanju came into the IPL on the back of an incredible run with Team India in the T20 World Cup. Not only did his heroics deliver India the title, he rightfully claimed the ‘player of the tournament’ prize.

CSK's next match is against reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Bengaluru on April 5.