Sanju Samson (Photo by Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry)
New Delhi: Sanju Samson returned to form in style, smashing a brilliant unbeaten 115 to lead Chennai Super Kings to their maiden win in IPL 2026, defeating Delhi Capitals by 23 runs. After several quiet matches, Sampson came from the front, while the bowlers led by Jimmy Overton sealed the win with a strong performance.When CSK were asked to bat first after losing the toss, they scored 212/2, largely thanks to the 113-run partnership between Samson and Ayush Mhatre, who scored a quick 59.
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While Mhatre impressed with his batting style, Samson stabilized the innings and accelerated at the right moments, reaching his century in 52 balls. It was his fourth
IPL
A hundred and a first for CSK. Even a falling catch on 55 did not stop him, as he made Delhi pay with a powerful knock.
Samson shines, Mhatre impresses
Samson looked more confident compared to previous matches, striking the ball cleanly and hitting the ball all over the ground. His innings was full of elegant boundaries and big hits, including a highlight-reel six at extra cover.
Meanwhile, Mhatre showed great promise before retiring to allow for a late push from Shivam Dubey.The strong total gave CSK a solid platform, and their bowlers made the most of it.
Bowling seals deal for CSK
Chasing 213, Delhi started strongly with KL Rahul and Pathum Nissanka scoring 61 runs in just five overs.
However, once Nissanka was sacked, the momentum changed. CSK’s players, including Overton, Khaleel Ahmed and Anshul Kamboj, used the pitch conditions intelligently, annoying the batsmen with bounce and tight lines.
Overton was the standout performer, finishing with 4/18 and dismissing key players, including David Miller. Although Tristan Stubbs batted strongly with 60, Delhi kept losing wickets at crucial moments and were eventually bowled out for 189.In the end, it was a complete performance from CSK, exciting batting from Samson backed by disciplined bowling, that helped them open their account this season.