There will be a dash of confidence on the one hand but that’s not all. There will also be the presence of a special cricketer who brings an air of vivid strokeplay. That is what that tends to happen with experience and exuberance of youth come together. Don’t you think?
But no prizes for guessing, for we are talking about a newly formed - and now confined- batting order that is all set to tick off the proceedings for the remarkable Chennai Super Kings up the order.
Sanju Samson and Ayush Mhatre. That’s what we talking about here!
Sanju Samson to open with Ayush Mhatre in IPL 2026
The Chennai Super Kings are set to unveil a fresh opening combination in IPL 2026, with Sanju Samson and Ayush Mhatre expected to take charge at the top of the order. Samson, known for his fluent stroke play and ability to accelerate in the powerplay, brings experience and composure to the role. His presence at the top could allow CSK to make more aggressive starts, something the franchise has occasionally lacked in recent seasons. On the other hand, Mhatre represents a bold, forward-looking call.
The youngster is seen as a fearless batter capable of taking on bowlers early, and his inclusion alongside Samson signals CSK’s intent to blend experience with youth.
The left-right (or right-right depending on style, adjust if needed) combination also offers tactical flexibility, forcing opposition bowlers to constantly adjust their lines and lengths in the powerplay overs. If the partnership clicks, it could redefine CSK’s batting approach this season—shifting from their traditionally measured starts to a more attacking template at the top.
