India, April 11 -- After a poor start to IPL 2026 and a string of disappointing performances, CSK badly needed one innings to change the mood around them. They got exactly that against the Delhi Capitals at Chepauk. Sanju Samson's unbeaten 115 off 56 balls powered Chennai to 212/2, set up their first win of the season, and gave a stuttering campaign its first proper breath. For Sanju, too, it was a release. He had come into the match with scores of 9, 9 and 13 in his first three outings, so this was not just a hundred. It was a statement wrapped inside one.

Ayush Mhatre's 59 off 36 gave Chennai crucial support through the middle overs, but the innings revolved around Sanju's control. He judged the conditions smartly, never let the knock ...