‘If what I am hearing is right…’ – R Ashwin on potential CSK captain after Zaheer Khan’s appointment

Zaheer Khan has been appointed as Chennai Super Kings head coach for IPL 2027, taking over from Stephen Fleming, who stepped down in July 2026 after 16 years in the role. Fleming’s tenure saw CSK win five IPL titles, but the franchise finished eighth in the 2026 season with six wins and eight losses. Khan’s contract with CSK is for one year.

R Ashwin has suggested that Sanju Samson could emerge as a potential candidate to replace Ruturaj Gaikwad as CSK captain following Khan’s appointment. Ashwin stated his views on the captaincy situation at the franchise as speculation grows about possible leadership changes under the new head coach.

“If what I am hearing is right, it looks like Sanju Samson might have a good shot at becoming captain. I am hearing that Sanju could get a chance at captaincy. But I don’t know how true it is,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Samson’s performance in the 2026 IPL season strengthens the case for his captaincy credentials. The Rajasthan Royals batter scored 477 runs at an average of 47.70 during the tournament, demonstrating consistent form with the bat. His run-scoring ability and consistency made him one of the standout performers in the league.

Gaikwad’s captaincy record in 2026 presents a contrasting picture. The CSK captain scored 337 runs at an average of 24.07 in the same season, while winning 14 of his 33 matches as captain. His individual batting form dipped compared to previous seasons, and the team’s overall performance led to their eighth-place finish in the league standings.

“It will be interesting to see if Zaheer Khan wants Ruturaj Gaikwad to remain captain or wants a change in leadership,” the former India off-spinner stated.

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Zaheer has been tasked with reviving CSK’s fortunes in the IPL after the Men in Yellow have failed to qualify for the playoffs in three consecutive seasons. Whether Gaikwad continues or Samson takes over, the main objective will be to bring back the glory days for one of the most successful franchises in the tournament’s history.