TOP STORIES
"The backbone of CSK's batting": Ruturaj Gaikwad lauds Sanju Samson
Chennai Super Kings' captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has praised batter Sanju Samson, calling him the backbone of Chennai Super Kings’ batting. Gaikwad's praise comes after Samson delivered a splendid, unbeaten 87 that anchored CSK’s chase against Delhi Capitals, guiding his side to a comfortable eight-wicket victory. Gaikwad showed great awareness of the match situation, absorbing the pressure and responding with authority. His latest knock marked his third score above 80 in IPL 2026 for his new franchise. Samson's current form traces back to his outstanding performances in the latter stages of the 2026 T20 World Cup, where he played a key role in India’s title-winning campaign.
“On the batting side, I would say I mean, more than grateful to have Sanju in the side after the tournament he had even in the World Cup and even now. So obviously he's (the) backbone now,” Ruturaj said at the post-match presentation.
“But bowling is something which wins you tournaments. And you obviously, to have Akeal and Jamie do that job where, you know, everyone is going for more than 10s or 12s. They're just coming in silently and doing the job. That gives you a lot of confidence," Gaikwad said.
For CSK, the victory came at the right time, as they now have strengthened their chances for playoffs. Meanwhile, speaking on his partnership with Samson, Gaikwad said that they don't really plan much.
"We don't really plan; we just kind of let each other know what exactly is happening and how we can assess and how we can move forward. That's the only talk. After that, it is more about how the over is going and how the match is progressing. So the talk is very less, more often than not, you rely on yourself to do the job. So definitely he's doing the job for me, so I'm really happy," he said.
Tags
More News
Netherlands reveal squad for maiden Women's T20 World Cup
Netherlands, who are set to make their Women's T20 World Cup debut, have named a tremendously strong squad for the upcoming mega event, set to be held in England and Wales June 12 to July 5. Babette de Leede will lead the squad that features a whole lot of star performers.
"We are super excited for our first ever appearance in the ICC T20 World Cup. It will be a gre...
Sanju Samson urged to take Virat Kohli route
Sanju Samson, enjoying a red-hot form, once again showed his amazing hitting prowess, guiding Chennai Super Kings to an easy eight-wicket win over Delhi Capitals on Tuesday at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. He smacked an unbeaten 87 to launch the side to victory with 15 balls to spare as he remains a vital pillar for Chennai Super Kings.
Now donning...
BCCI unveils schedule for IPL 2026 playoffs
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the schedule for IPL 2026 playoffs, with the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad set to host the final on May 31. Qualifier 1, set to be played between the top two teams, will be staged at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on May 26. The winner of that match will go straight through to the final.
HCA appoints Ambati Rayudu as director of cricket operations
Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu has ushered in a new role after being appointed as head of cricket operations at Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA).
"I am very happy to announce that I have been appointed as the Head of cricketing operations for HCA. by Justice P Naveen Rao(SMC), M Jeevan reddy (Secretary HCA) and the apex council," Rayudu wrote on X.
"...
Ravi Shastri expresses concern over Bumrah's torrid form
Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri has expressed concern over Bumrah's torrid form in the ongoing Indian Premier League, urging the franchise (Mumbai Indians) to carefully manage his workload. Bumrah, who is considered to be one of the most dangerous bowlers, has had to experience an unusual tournament, and Shastri has attributed Bumrah's strug...
Android App
iOS App
YouTube
Facebook
Instagram