Mumbai, March 26 -- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has confirmed that the team will open with Sanju Samson and himself in the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season, putting an end to speculation over the franchise's opening combination.
Speaking at the Captain's Day event in Mumbai on Wednesday, Gaikwad revealed the decision when asked about the possible permutations between himself, new signing Sanju Samson and India Under-19 star Ayush Mhatre.
"Rutu and Sanju," Gaikwad said, when he was given all permutations with the three batters.
The decision means the 18-year-old Mhatre, one of the breakout performers of the previous season, is likely to move down the order. Mhatre had impressed while opening in IPL 2025, sc...