Chennai Super Kings (CSK) recorded a convincing win over Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL 2026 when the two clashed on May 5 in Delhi. DC had batted first after winning the toss, and thanks to the lower order, Sameer Rizvi (40*) and Tristan Stubbs (38) posted 155/7 after the top order failed.

In response, despite losing Ruturaj Gaikwad early, Sanju Samson made 87* in 52 balls with 7 fours and 6 sixes and ensured CSK didn’t err in the chase on a tricky wicket. Kartik Sharma provides great support, hitting 41* with 4 fours and 2 sixes, as CSK won the game by 8 wickets.

Samson was named Player of the Match for his brilliant knock and admitted that the thought of a third century this season had crossed his mind, but winning the match unbeaten gave him “more satisfaction”.

“Hundreds are always special. There was a desire, but I had to be a bit too selfish to get it… winning the game gives you more confidence, satisfaction, and happiness,” he said with a smile during the post-match presentation.

Samson disclosed that he has been honing his opening move, adjusting it according to bowlers and match circumstances.

Sunil Gavaskar lauded Sanju Samson for his maturity and for sacrificing a century in order to ensure CSK won the game.

"Patience brings great rewards. He got set and then accelerated. Had Kartik not finished it off with those shots, Samson might have had his century. But he played for the team," Gavaskar noted.

Similar thoughts were expressed by Virender Sehwag, who commended Samson's enhanced game knowledge.

"He was playing percentage cricket, only attacking balls in his zone. Over the last few years, his understanding of the game has improved massively," Sehwag said.

With 402 runs in 10 games, including two hundreds and a fifty, Samson is among the top performers this season, demonstrating his effect.

More significantly, his efforts have had a direct impact on CSK's successes. Chennai is still very much in the running for the playoffs after five victories.