Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has tipped Sanju Samson to eventually captain the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, advising him to build his own unique legacy rather than following in the footsteps of previous leaders.
Ashwin noted that the leadership transition has been in motion for some time, including Ravindra Jadeja’s previous stint and current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s ongoing role. He believes it is a matter of time before Samson leads the five-time champions.
“I think the mantle is already passed on. When Jadeja took over the captaincy a few years ago, I think that is when the mantle was likely to be passed on. Didn’t quite work out, and then it’s been, Ruturaj… I think Ruturaj has been running the show for the last 2-3 years along with Fleming,” Ashwin told ESPNCricinfo.
“The mantle passing over, if you ask me, I mean, I’m no astrologer, but all I can tell you is I do see Sanju captaining CSK at some stage. Don’t know when, but I do see that happening,” he added.
Ashwin stressed that Samson should not be pressured into adopting the same style as previous iconic captains, a nod to CSK’s successful era under MS Dhoni.
“The one thing I wouldn’t want to risk upon or don’t want for Sanju is him stepping into anybody’s shoes. You don’t have to really step into anybody’s legacy. We don’t necessarily need to live like that nor play like that,” Ashwin stated.
“He’s got his own unique clothing in which he lives, and I would like to see his own imprint on it. The very fact that we need to follow somebody’s footsteps is where the issue begins. Then we don’t live our lives, right? We start catering to somebody else’s footprints. That is something I don’t want to see him do,” he explained.
After being traded from Rajasthan Royals (RR) in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, Sanju Samson struggled in CSK’s initial matches, registering scores of 6, 7, and 9.
The wicketkeeper-batter emphatically broke this slump against Delhi Capitals, smashing 115* off 56 balls* at Chepauk. This innings was followed by a fluent 32-ball 48 against Kolkata Knight Riders.
