Why is Kartik Sharma keeping instead of Sanju Samson for CSK vs DC in IPL 2026 clash?
(Courtesy : BCCI/IPL)
Sanju Samson scored IPL 2026’s first century to end his poor run of form this season.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are still looking to claim their first victory of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Sent in to bat first after losing the toss, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad continued to struggle at the top of the order, as he lost his wicket after a sluggish start.
Having scored only 22 runs prior to this contest, the pressure was on Sanju Samson. A lot of expectations surrounded the Keralite wicket-keeper, who made his shift from Rajasthan Royals (RR) to CSK ahead of the IPL 2026.
However, he reminded fans of his talent with a superb century against Delhi Capitals (DC) and return to form in style. Samson carried his bat through, staying unbeaten until the end. He smashed 115 runs off 56 balls, including 15 majestic fours and four effortless maximums, at a blistering strike rate of 205.
His knock helped his team post a total of 212, but a solid bowling performance would be needed to defend this target.
Why is Kartik Sharma keeping instead of Sanju Samson for CSK vs DC in IPL 2026 clash?
Youngster Kartik Sharma, who earned big money at the recently concluded IPL auction, was dropped from the team ahead of CSK’s clash against DC. The return of Dewald Brevis to the side meant one of Sharma or Sarfraz Khan had to be dropped.
Sarfraz though made full use of the opportunity which came his way, and his 25-ball half-century against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) showed both his creativity and batting promise. Kartik, on the other hand, managed to score only 25 runs in his first three appearances.
While he was not named in playing XI, Kartik still featured in the list of the chosen five impact players. He was used by team as substitute fielders.
Samson, who had batted all the way from the first ball to the last delivery of the innings, was understandably tired, and required more time to be ready for keeping in the second innnings.
As a result, Kartik donned the keeping gloves in Samson’s absence. However, the Keralite batter is expected to return to the field at the end of the powerplay, or later on in the match.
Why did Kartik Sharma keep wickets instead of Sanju Samson?
Samson had batted through the entire innings and was fatigued, so Kartik Sharma stepped in temporarily as wicketkeeper.
Was Kartik Sharma part of the playing XI?
No, he was not in the starting XI but was included among the impact players.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.
Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.