Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has addressed the slow start of star batter Sanju Samson in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, reminding fans of the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and recalling Samson’s dominant form in the recent T20 World Cup as context for his confidence in the player’s abilities.

Samson, who was traded from the Rajasthan Royals to CSK in a marquee move ahead of the season, has struggled in his first three matches for the five‑time champions, managing only single‑digit scores and coinciding with CSK’s third straight loss. Critics have been quick to highlight the wicketkeeper‑batter’s underwhelming output, especially given his standout performance for India in the T20 World Cup earlier this year.

Fleming, however, urged patience. He pointed out that the short format is inherently volatile — “in T20 you can change quickly” — and highlighted Samson’s potential to be “very dominant” once he re‑connects with form, referencing his explosive contributions in the World Cup as proof of that capability. He insisted the team would continue to back Samson while he settles into his new environment.

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A key part of Fleming’s explanation for Samson’s struggles is the adjustment process after moving franchises. Having spent over a decade with Rajasthan Royals, Samson is still forging his identity within CSK’s setup, which itself has undergone several changes. Fleming said this off‑field adaptation — building a sense of belonging within the side — is crucial and requires time, especially as the squad integrates multiple new players.

The coach also underscored the team’s commitment to supporting not just Samson, but other senior and young players alike as CSK navigates early setbacks in the campaign. Fleming has called for patience from fans and stakeholders, urging them to see the broader picture of team cohesion and long‑term success, rather than judging based on immediate scorecards.

While fan frustration has grown, with some questioning Samson’s intent and hunger after his late‑arrival struggles, Fleming’s comments reflect an emphasis on stability and belief in process over reactionary criticism. He believes that once Samson “connects” fully with his teammates and regains confidence, his World Cup‑proven game can become a pivotal force for CSK in the remainder of the IPL season.

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