IPL 2026: ‘Can CSK win without Sanju Samson’s runs?’ - Ex-Indian cricketer questions team’s overdependence ahead of LSG clash

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has shared his views on how Chennai Super Kings should approach their upcoming clash against Lucknow Super Giants in the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League. The two sides are set to face each other on May 10 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Chopra pointed out that CSK need to find ways to win matches without relying heavily on Sanju Samson, stating that the batting unit appears overly dependent on his performances. However, he added that the five-time

champions do not have many other major concerns in their setup. CSK are currently placed sixth in the points table with 10 points, while LSG sit at the bottom with six points from 10 matches.

The former opener also advised skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and the team management to continue backing Akeal Hosein in the playing XI. In addition, he suggested that Jamie Overton should be utilised more effectively with the ball against LSG.

"The one big story is, can you win without Sanju Samson scoring runs? Everything else is going fine. So continue in the same fashion. Play Akeal Hosein for sure as it's an afternoon game because he is required in the Powerplay overs. You don't even know who would come with Mitchell Marsh, but a right-hander would come. So Akeal Hosein has a role there," said Chopra on his YouTube channel.

"One problem is that Sanju Samson's runs and their winning go hand in hand. So how can you save yourself if he gets out early? That's a big question. The second question is whether Jamie Overton shouldn't be utilized better because you made him bowl the 19th over in the last match. That was his first, and he conceded five runs and dismissed Tristan Stubbs," he added.

Chopra also spoke about the bowling strength of LSG, stating that their attack has the ability to trouble any opposition on its day. However, he expressed uncertainty over whether Mayank Yadav would feature in the playing XI for the clash in Chennai. He suggested that Prince Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Mohammed Shami should make up LSG’s pace attack.

"Lucknow have just one thing. They can threaten anyone with their fast bowling. I don't know whether they would play Mayank Yadav because he has conceded 106 runs in eight overs. So he is not bowling that well. Prince Yadav is absolutely a rockstar. You will have to bring in Mohsin Khan if he is fit. So Mohsin, Shami, and Prince Yadav, these are your three fast bowlers. After that, I don't know what you would do with your bowling," Chopra said.

Chopra further suggested that LSG could opt for a two-spinner combination featuring Shahbaz Ahmed and Digvesh Rathi in their clash against CSK. He also backed Rishabh Pant to bat at No. 4, stating that a fixed batting position provides better mental clarity and allows a player to prepare more effectively for different match situations.

"You will have to play Digvesh Rathi as it's an afternoon game. They can play Shahbaz Ahmed as the opposition has a right-hander-dominated batting lineup. Find a sixth bowler. Who plays with five bowlers nowadays?," said Chopra.