Sanju Samson is our backbone, says CSK skipper after big win over Delhi Capitals

In his debut season for Chennai Super Kings, Sanju Samson has quickly become indispensable, with skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad hailing the keeper-batter as the “backbone” of the side after another impactful knock guided them to a comfortable win over Delhi Capitals on Tuesday.

Samson, following his two unbeaten centuries earlier this season — one of them against DC in Chennai — smashed an unbeaten 87 as CSK chased down a modest 155 for 7 to seal an eight-wicket win with 15 balls to spare.

With the victory, CSK moved to 10 points and sixth place on the table from 10 games, while DC remained on eight points after another underwhelming display with the bat.

“On the batting side, more than grateful to have Sanju after the tournament he had in the (T20) World Cup, he’s our backbone,” said Gaikwad after the easy victory.

The CSK skipper also praised his bowlers, with Akeal Hosein returning figures of 1/19 in four overs and Jamie Overton removing the well-set Tristan Stubbs on 38.

Samson attributed his success to subtle pre-delivery movements, saying they help him better gauge the line of the ball.

“I have been working a bit on my initial movement and it has been coming off. I’ve been doing it for the last few years and it’s tactical as well depending on the bowlers and how you want to approach them,” said Samson.

He added that his batting is built on a calm, composed approach — a hallmark of his game throughout his career.

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“…to be very honest I am always like this (calm) but you are seeing me more in the middle now so you feel I am calm, even outside I am calm,” he said.

Samson said he would have had to be “too selfish” to convert his knock into a century, emphasising that winning the game mattered more than personal milestones.

“Hundreds are always special. There was a desire, but I had to be a bit too selfish to get it… my partner was playing well and winning the game gives you more confidence and happiness. A few more matches to come, let’s see if it (another century) comes around,” he added.