Former India spinner Anil Kumble expressed surprise at Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) decision to trade Ravindra Jadeja to Rajasthan Royals (RR). Speaking on the broadcaster’s show, Kumble said that the arrival of Sanju Samson will be a major boost for CSK going forward.
“It’s a big move. It’s a big move because Chennai Super Kings generally don’t really trade their players who’ve been with them for a while, and I was a bit surprised that Jadeja moved to Rajasthan Royals. Obviously, Sanju Samson coming to CSK is a plus and a positive, because MS Dhoni, I’m not sure how long he can continue as a wicketkeeper-batter,” he said.
Jadeja, now 36, brings immense experience to any franchise he plays for. He has featured in 254 IPL matches and first appeared in the league for RR before moving to CSK in 2012. Since then, he has been a key figure for the ‘yellow army’, except for the two seasons in 2016 and 2017. His contributions were crucial in CSK’s title wins in 2018, 2021, and 2023.
Kumble further explained that Samson’s presence will strengthen CSK’s top order, especially with Devon Conway no longer available.
“For Sanju Samson, although Ruturaj Gaikwad has done a good job for CSK, and then you needed an Indian opener. Now that Conway has also bid adieu and yes, I know Mathre is there, but you have a top-order Indian batter, wicketkeeper, and a solid player in Sanju Samson. So I think that’s a great positive for CSK,” he added.
Samson, who has been a consistent performer in the IPL, made his debut for RR in 2013. He has built a strong career with 4704 runs at an average of 30.95 across 177 matches.
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