Chennai Super Kings are already feeling the heat in IPL 2026. Two straight losses have put captain Ruturaj Gaikwad under early pressure, and questions are growing around both his form and leadership.
The bigger talking point, however, is the presence of Sanju Samson at the top of the order. The new opener, who joined CSK in a big trade, has not delivered strong starts so far, adding to the team’s struggles.
Gaikwad and Samson were expected to form a solid opening pair, but that has not happened yet. Their lack of runs at the top has left CSK playing catch-up in most matches.
At the same time, the bowling unit has failed to control key moments. This combination has made things tougher for a side known for staying calm under pressure.
Leadership question emerges
Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes the situation is not just about form. He feels Samson’s presence may also be affecting Gaikwad mentally.
“Do you think the captain, Gaikwad, feels under pressure because of Samson?” Vaughan asked during a discussion.
Former New Zealand pacer Simon Doull agreed straight away. “Definitely,” he said.
Vaughan explained that it creates a tricky situation. Gaikwad is one of the youngest captains in the league, and now he shares the dressing room with a player who is also a proven captain and wicketkeeper.
“You back Gaikwad as captain, but then you sign Sanju, who fits the old CSK model of a keeper-captain. That can play on your mind, even if you try to ignore it,” Vaughan added.
For a team that had long success under MS Dhoni, comparisons are natural. That makes the leadership role even more demanding for Gaikwad.
Pressure building on Samson too
It is not just Gaikwad who is under scrutiny. Samson also carries huge expectations after arriving in a high-profile trade.
Doull pointed out that the pressure is double for Samson. He needs to justify the trade and also perform in conditions he knows well.
“He wants to shine here. He is from the South, and these are familiar conditions. But the expectations are massive,” Doull said.
He also reminded that Samson was in great form during the recent T20 World Cup and needs to trust his game again.
Right now, CSK are searching for answers early in the season. How Gaikwad handles the pressure and how Samson responds with the bat could shape their campaign from here.