Next year’s IPL is getting interesting by now. The latest news is that the CSK snubbed Sanju Samson. They have now picked Washington Sundar from the Gujarat Titans for IPL 2026. CSK lost Ravichandran Ashwin after the 2025 season. Ashwin’s replacement found in this 25-year-old all-rounder who can spin the ball both ways.
Why Did CSK Choose Washington Sundar?
Chennai struck a pure cash deal with the Gujarat Titans to grab Sundar before the deadline. Ashwin and CSK parted ways after he spent years playing at the Chepauk stadium. The veteran spinner was earning INR 9.75 Crores before leaving the yellow jersey behind.
Gujarat bought Sundar for just INR 3.20 Crores during the previous auction season. Now they made a good profit by selling him to CSK through this trade. Sundar scored 133 runs in only 5 games with a strike rate of 166.25.
He picked up 2 wickets while batting down the order for GT. CSK’s pitch at Chepauk helps spinners turn the ball sharply. Sundar will bowl with Ravindra Jadeja and give CSK two spinning all-rounders now.
What Happened to the Sanju Samson Deal?
CSK wanted Rajasthan Royals wicket-keeper Sanju Samson earlier this month for their squad. The talks went on for a few days. The report says both teams couldn’t agree suitably. The Royals wanted a good cash that CSK simply refused to pay out.
CSK snubbed Sanju Samson when the Royals didn’t budge from their high asking price tag. Chennai’s management felt that paying so much for one player didn’t make financial sense. They pulled out of negotiations and started looking at other available choices.
CSK’s Strategy for IPL 2026
Sundar brings youth and energy to a CSK team that usually loves experienced players. Ashwin’s replacement found without emptying the team’s entire budget for one single player. The all-rounder can open the bowling and also finish innings with the bat.
CSK snubbed Sanju Samson but might talk again if the Royals drop their demands later. CSK feels happy with their squad core heading into next season. Sundar gets a chance to prove himself at one of cricket’s most iconic venues. Fans are already talking about how he’ll act under MS Dhoni’s guidance next year.
