Star India cricketer Hanuma Vihari has sparked an interesting debate by suggesting that Chennai Super Kings’ blockbuster trade for Sanju Samson was driven more by commercial appeal than purely cricketing reasons. While Samson’s ability to open the batting, keep wickets, and adapt across formats is well known, Vihari believes CSK were equally focused on his immense “face value” and popularity, especially in southern India.
Sanju Samson’s move from Rajasthan Royals to CSK is already being hailed as one of the biggest trades in IPL history. Just ahead of the mini-auction, CSK pulled off a major coup by acquiring the Royals’ captain in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and England all-rounder Sam Curran. The deal sent shockwaves across the league, given Samson’s stature as a leader and one of India’s most followed cricketers.
Although franchises like Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders were also reportedly keen on signing Samson, CSK emerged victorious in the race. According to Vihari, that success had as much to do with branding and fan engagement as it did with team balance.
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“Samson enjoys huge fan support in the South. When you think about the IPL, it is not just about cricket. If you believe otherwise, you are mistaken,” Hanuma Vihari said while speaking on his Instagram account. “IPL owners think beyond performances and look at how much commercial value a player can bring to a franchise.”
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Hanuma Vihari highlighted Samson’s unmatched pull among fans from Kerala and neighbouring regions, noting how supporters consistently turn up in large numbers to cheer for him, regardless of venue. From that perspective, CSK’s move appears aimed at making Samson the new face of the franchise in the post-MS Dhoni era.
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Interestingly, Vihari also questioned the cricketing necessity of the trade. CSK already boast established openers, with Ruturaj Gaikwad firmly entrenched at the top of the order. “CSK didn’t really need an opener,” Hanuma Vihari pointed out, adding that Samson had even batted at No. 3 for Rajasthan Royals after returning from injury last season.
Whether viewed as a strategic masterstroke on the field or a calculated branding move off it, Samson’s arrival at CSK has undeniably reshaped the IPL landscape and intensified conversations around how franchises build their squads in the modern era.
