Chennai Super Kingsremarkable turn in IPL 2026 became even stronger after winning over him Capitals of Delhibut it happened Ravichandran Ashwin‘s post-match assessment drew attention. while Sanju Samson once again starred with the bat and continuing his amazing season, Ashwin surprisingly claimed to be a left-arm spinner. Akeal Hosein currently playing a bigger role in the CSK set-up. The veteran off-spinner highlighted that Hosein’s control during the Powerplay and medium overs has been key to Chennai’s recent success.
CSK went into the contest under pressure but produced a clinical all-round display against Delhi Capitals. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Delhi Capitals struggled on a sluggish surface. They were reeling at 69/5 in the 11th over before a 65-run partnership between them. Tristan Stubbs (38) and Impact Player Samir Rizvi (40)* helped them reach a total of 155/7. Spinners Akeal (1/19) and Nur Ahmed (2/22) stifled the scoring in average passes.
Chasing 156, CSK lost their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad early, but Samson anchored the pursuit with majestic authority. He smashed 87 off 52 balls, including seven fours and six sixes, to win the Man of the Match award. Samson was well supported by the young man Karthik Sharma (41)*. The pair stood at No. 3 for 114 runs – a CSK record against DC – completing the chase in just 17.3 overs.
Ravichandran Ashwin explains why Akeal Hosein’s contribution is worth more than Sanju Samson’s
Speaking on his YouTube channel after the match, Ashwin explained that he believes Akeal’s contribution is more than Samson’s at the moment. Akeal’s powerplay bowling ability gave CSK a huge tactical advantage. His accuracy, change of pace and composure under pressure allowed Chennaiyin to attack aggressively with their positioning, while limiting the opposition’s scoring opportunities.
“Akeal Hosein has a bigger role than Chetta. Why? CSK crossed 100 in 13 overs but Delhi were 76/5 or more where Tristan Stubbs and Sameer Rizvi started the partnership. In the first 13 overs, Akeal Hosein completed his overs. In four overs he scored 1 for 19 runs and he took a wicket.” Ashwin said.
Ashwin’s comments reflected the growing importance of control bowlers in modern T20 cricket. While their explosive batting performances often dominate the headlines, Chennai’s bowling unit has quietly developed into one of the most effective attacks of the tournament. The West Indies spinner once again delivered a high-economy spell against the Delhi Capitals, stifling the run flow at the crucial stage and ensuring that the Capitals never recovered after losing early wickets.
Also READ: IPL 2026: Sanju Samson scores century in DC vs CSK clash
Samson and Akeal lead CSK’s IPL 2026 campaign
The arrival of Samson and Akeal has completely transformed the campaign of Chennai Super Kings this season. A blockbuster move after joining CSK Rajasthan RoyalsSamson became the backbone of the batting line. The stylish wicket-keeper-fielder scored 402 runs in 10 matches, including two centuries. His crucial and match-winning knocks highlighted his ability to dominate quality bowling attacks.
However, while Samson provided skill and consistency with the bat, Akeal brought balance to the bowling department. Partnership Nur Ahmed in the spin attack, the left-arm spinner has emerged as one of CSK’s most reliable performers. Earlier in the tournament, his 4/17 win against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium showed his impact in high-pressure games. More importantly, his ability to bowl at multiple stages of the innings has helped Chennai build one of the strongest defensive bowling units this season.
Also READ: Fans go wild as Sanju Samson’s clinical knock propels CSK to a massive win over DC in IPL 2026.
