IPL 2026: “Fresh start, first exit” – Fans react as Sanju Samson fails on Chepauk debut vs PBKS

Sanju Samson had another disappointing outing for Chennai Super Kings in their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday, April 3. After his move from Rajasthan Royals, the Indian batter has now registered two single-digit scores in yellow. Fans had high hopes, especially after his strong performances in India’s T20 World Cup campaign.

There was a lot of excitement as Samson walked out for his first game at Chepauk and he started well with a boundary, lifting the crowd. However, the moment didn’t last long. He was dismissed after just 7 balls by Xavier Bartlett, edging one to Prabhsimran Singh.

Fans quickly reacted on social media, with many expressing disappointment, while others backed Samson to bounce back, reminding everyone of his ability to deliver match-winning performances.

Sanju Samson’s early dismissal disappoints on Chepauk debut

Sanju Samson’s two consecutive failures in his debut IPL season for Chennai Super Kings, especially his first outing in the yellow jersey at Chepauk Stadium sparks fan frustration and widespread debate, with many questioning whether he can replicate his T20 World Cup form in the IPL. There was considerable anticipation as Sanju Samson walked out for his first appearance at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. He made a promising start with a boundary, briefly lifting the mood in the stadium.

However, the momentum was short-lived. Samson’s innings lasted just 7 balls before he was dismissed by Xavier Bartlett, edging the ball to Prabhsimran Singh.

In his first two matches for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Samson has faced only 7 balls in each innings. He scored 6 runs against the Rajasthan Royals and followed it up with 7 runs against the Punjab Kings, reflecting a challenging start to his campaign.

See also -Sanju Samson receives special praise from football legend after ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 heroics

How PBKS capitalised after Samson’s wicket

Despite his success in the T20 World Cup, Sanju Samson has not been able to match expectations in the early matches of the Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2026 campaign. His early dismissal once again put the team under pressure and slowed their momentum in the power play.

Samson was dismissed by Xavier Bartlett on the final ball of the second over, leaving CSK on the back foot. Attempting to play an attacking shot, he edged the ball behind to Prabhsimran Singh, giving Punjab Kings an early breakthrough.

In the 1.6 over, the sequence of deliveries highlighted a mix of promise and pressure. The over began with a boundary from Ruturaj Gaikwad, setting a positive tone. Samson then defended one back to the bowler, followed by a single to point to rotate strike. He was beaten outside off stump on the next delivery but responded well with a crisp boundary towards cover. However, on the final ball, he edged it behind and lost his wicket, allowing PBKS to seize early control of the game.

Fans react to underwhelming start in IPL 2026

Fans shared their reactions on X (formerly Twitter) after Sanju Samson’s poor start in IPL 2026. Many were surprised and disappointed with his performance, calling his early dismissal a big blow for the Chennai Super Kings. Some fans also criticised his shot selection, footwork, and lack of intent.

A few fans questioned whether the World Cup hero could return to form soon. Others suggested that the team could try changing his batting position or send him lower down the order to help him regain confidence.

Here is how fans reacted: