Sanju Samson explained the reason behind his Padyappa celebration following Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) win over Delhi Capitals (DC). The wicketkeeper-batsman dedicated the gesture to CSK coach Stephen Fleming after scoring an unbeaten 115 off 56 balls, which helped secure CSK’s first victory of the season.
IPL 2026, CSK vs DC: HIGHLIGHTS | SCORECARD
Samson’s century came after a difficult start to the campaign, and he chose to mark the milestone by mimicking the iconic salute from Rajnikanth’s cult Tamil film, Padyappa. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Samson acknowledged the challenges Fleming faces leading a franchise and said the celebration was a mark of respect.
“That was for Stephen Fleming. I know how hard it can get leading a franchise. I know how challenging it is. So, I wanted to dedicate this to our coach Fleming,” Samson said.
‘BACK TO BASICS’
After three low scores in the opening games, Samson finally found form resembling his performance at the T20 World Cup 2026. This was his first century for CSK since moving from Rajasthan Royals during the off-season.
Samson stated that the trade reflected the trust CSK placed in him and instilled a sense of responsibility. He was determined to help the team return to winning ways.
“It really means a lot. The trust that they showed in me with that trade, it was a feeling of responsibility. I wanted to put the team on track. It is not easy to start with a new franchise, but it has not felt like it. Everyone has been so sweet, so welcoming, so calm and relaxed. Even when we lost three games, we had a meeting of only 50 seconds today. So, that resonates with the kind of person I am,” Samson said.
Reflecting on his recent struggles, Samson said he returned to basics and used his past failures to regain his touch.
“I have failed a lot. So, failing a lot tells you how you need to come back. When you fail, you think hard about whether you need to change anything. The mind goes haywire. But I am 31 years old, I have failed a lot. I know that it is about going back to the basics. I know what my basics are. It is about being in the right zone mentally and going back to timing the ball and seeing it nicely out of the bowler’s hand. We did some sessions for it a few days ago and I am glad it came off,” he added.
Samson and CSK will look to build on this momentum when they face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their next match on Tuesday, April 14.
IPL 2026 | IPL Schedule | IPL Points Table | IPL Player Stats | Purple Cap | Orange Cap | IPL Videos | Cricket News | Live Score
– Ends
