The MA Chidambaram Stadium erupted tonight as Sanju Samson delivered a masterclass in T20 batting, smashing his fourth IPL century to lead Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to a formidable 212/2 in their first innings against the Delhi Capitals (DC).
In what was a high-stakes Match 18 of the 2026 season, Samson silenced all doubts regarding his form in the Yellow Jersey. Coming off a string of low scores, the Indian star blazed his way to 115 off just 56 deliveries, striking at a phenomenal 205.36. His innings was a symphony of 15 boundaries and 4 towering sixes, leaving the Delhi bowling attack completely shell-shocked.
CSK's First Innings Dominance
Opting to bat first, CSK saw an early struggle from captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (15), but Samson took charge from the powerplay itself.
He found a perfect partner in the 17-year-old sensation Ayush Mhatre, who played a fearless knock of 59 off 36 balls.
The turning point of the innings came through a rare tactical move: Mhatre was "retired out" in the 18th over to allow the explosive Shivam Dube (20* off 10) to capitalize on the final overs. Samson, however, remained the focal point, reaching his century in 52 balls with a streaky boundary off T Natarajan-a moment that saw the entire Chepauk crowd stand in a thunderous ovation.
Final Scoreboard
Chennai Super Kings: 212/2 (20 Overs)
Top Scorer: Sanju Samson (115 off 56 balls)
Key Partnership: Samson & Mhatre (113 runs)
With this sensational knock, Sanju Samson has officially recorded his maiden century for CSK and his 4th overall in the IPL.
Sanju Samson Career Milestones
Tonight wasn't just about the century; it was a night of record-breaking milestones for the CSK wicketkeeper:
400 T20 Sixes
Samson became only the fourth Indian in history to hit 400 sixes in T20 cricket, joining Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav.
8,500 T20 Runs
He also surpassed the 8,500-run mark in the shortest format, cementing his legacy as one of India's greatest T20 assets.
After recording just 22 runs in his first three games for CSK, this 115-run blitz is the perfect "arrival" for Samson in Chennai colours.
