Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson has opened up about his long-standing admiration for MS Dhoni, recalling how he became a fan of the former India captain after watching his early international performances as a school student.Samson, who was traded to CSK ahead of the IPL 2026 auction after a successful stint as Rajasthan Royals captain, is now seen as a key figure in the franchise’s transition phase. The 31-year-old has already begun making an impact with his fluent batting and is being widely discussed as a long-term successor to Dhoni’s wicketkeeper-batter legacy at CSK.

Speaking on the Super Kings Podcast, Samson reflected on his childhood memories of watching Dhoni bat for India. He said his admiration began when he saw Dhoni during his early breakthrough years, particularly after his explosive innings against Pakistan. Samson recalled being a school student at the time, describing how Dhoni’s performances instantly caught his attention and shaped his cricketing aspirations.He specifically mentioned Dhoni’s iconic early knocks, including the 183-run innings against Sri Lanka, which cemented his fascination.

Samson said that seeing a long-haired Dhoni walk out to bat for India and consistently produce match-winning performances made a strong impression on him at a young age, eventually turning him into a devoted fan.The CSK batter also shared a personal anecdote, revealing that he once cut out Dhoni’s image from a Boost advertisement and pasted it in his school diary. He said Dhoni’s presence in posters, advertisements, and promotional campaigns made him a constant figure in his childhood cricket journey, further deepening his admiration.

Also Read: Sanju Samson Wins Over International Captains and IPL Experts With Brilliant IPL 2026 Form

Samson added that his connection with Dhoni now feels surreal, given that he currently shares the dressing room with him at CSK. He described how he interacts with Dhoni regularly, seeks advice, and even spends time with him off the field, calling the experience “more than a dream” for any young cricketer who idolised him growing up.With CSK preparing to face Lucknow Super Giants at Chepauk in their upcoming IPL 2026 fixture, Samson’s remarks have further highlighted the emotional bridge between admiration and mentorship within the franchise’s evolving setup.

Also Read: Sunil Gavaskar Responds to Sanju Samson’s Selfless Hundred Remark in IPL 2026