IPL 2026: Should CSK have selected Jamie Smith over Sanju Samson?
Chennai Super Kings' decision to buy Sanju Samson ahead of IPL 2026 has sparked huge debate. While Samson's experience and Indian batting abilities are well known, many questioned whether CSK missed a big opportunity by not targeting the England wicketkeeper-batsman. jamie smith,
CSK had a very bad IPL 2025 and finished last with only four wins. Injuries to Ruturaj Gaikwad, poor performances from Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway and uncertainty over MS Dhoni's future exposed a major gap in their team. With many senior players nearing the end of their careers, CSK opted to trade Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Samson.
The experienced batsman arrives as a ready leader with over 4,500 IPL runs and is a solid wicketkeeper. For CSK, the trade addressed the lack of Indian top-order options in the mini-auction. However, stability alone may not be enough for franchisees looking towards long-term plans.
Why was Jamie Smith a better choice?
Meanwhile, Smith's recent heroics for England could have been a better investment for CSK's future. His 80-ball Test century against India at Edgbaston was the fastest century by an English wicketkeeper against India. Coming in at 84/5, Smith faced the Indian bowlers brilliantly.
The 24-year-old could be the player CSK desperately needs. He can open in T20, bat anywhere from No. 3 to No. 6 and is a technically good wicketkeeper. His numbers in the middle order since 2023, which include 555 runs at a strike rate of over 163, match the role that MS Dhoni once played for CSK. With Dhoni set to play his final season, Smith could have been a natural long-term successor rather than a stopgap solution.
Furthermore, CSK's struggles have often been due to a lack of intent at the top. Smith's vision could be the key the team lacked in 2025. Pairing him with a young Indian opener like Ayush Mhatre, while anchoring Ruturaj Gaikwad at No. 3 could give CSK a dynamic top order.
However, Samson undoubtedly strengthens CSK in the short term. He has leadership experience and familiarity with Indian conditions. CSK have already sacrificed two all-rounders for them, raising questions over the balance and long-term depth of the team.
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